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Historic Half-Day Tour through the Madrid of the Austrias

🚶On foot

This walking route is designed to minimize distances and maximize immersion time in history. It begins at the imposing Palacio Real and the adjacent Catedral de la Almudena. From there, the route descends directly along Calle Mayor towards the historic Plaza de la Villa, finally culminating a few steps away in the city's monumental heart, the Plaza Mayor.

The 4 stops

1. Palacio Real de Madrid

   History

   The official residence of the kings of Spain, one of the largest palaces in Europe with a rich history and impressive architecture.

   Tip

   Visit the Real Armería, considered one of the most important collections of weapons and armor in the world alongside that of Vienna.

2. Catedral de la Almudena

   History

   A cathedral with a unique mix of architectural styles, it took over a century to build and is located directly opposite the Palacio Real.

   Tip

   Notice the brightly colored, Neo-Gothic style ceiling inside, painted by Kiko Argüello, which contrasts greatly with the classical exterior.

3. Plaza de la Villa

   History

   One of Madrid's best-preserved monumental complexes, surrounded by buildings dating back to the 15th, 16th, and 17th centuries.

   Tip

   Here you will find the Casa y Torre de los Lujanes, the oldest civil building in Madrid, where King Francis I of France was supposedly imprisoned.

4. Plaza Mayor

   History

   The epicenter of the Madrid de los Austrias, a large arcaded square full of history, where in ancient times everything from markets to public executions were held.

   Tip

   Pay attention to the Casa de la Panadería, adorned with mythological frescoes on its facade, being the oldest and most important building in the square.