Planning a trip to Madrid? You’re in for a treat. The Royal Palace is, at last, open to visitors. Once the private quarters of Spanish kings from Carlos III all the way to Alfonso XIII, the original structure was destroyed by fire in 1734, and was replaced by the resplendent building in place today. Drawings commissioned by Louis XIV for the east wing of the Louvre’s Cour Carrée, sketched by Italian architect and sculptor Gian Bernini, inspired the architecture.

Within: A 70-step main staircase designed by Sabatini, the Throne Hall with a ceiling mural by Tiepolo, the Gasparini Room with its elaborate 18th century floral theme, an armory with weapons and armor used by Spanish kings and royalty dating back to the 13th century, a painting gallery with works by Caravaggio, Goya and Sorolla; a royal chapel with a collection of stringed instruments crafted by Antonio Stradivari, and the royal chemist’s quarters, with vessels created in the famed La Granja factory. In addition to the main building, the palace complex includes a parade ground and a courtyard with individual galleries. The Changing of the Guard takes place daily at 11 a.m. near the entry on Calle Bailen, except during July, August and September, or when official state events are scheduled.

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