If you ever feel like you are the master of procrastination, you can probably relate to the tale of the Catedral de la Almudena. Plans to build this Catholic Church began in the 16th century when the capital of Spain changed from Toledo to Madrid. King Felipe II wanted the cathedral to be dedicated to the Virgin of Almudena, Patroness of the city. However, construction for the cathedral only began in 1879 and was finally completed in 1993, when Pope John Paul II consecrated it.

With a length of 104m, a width of 76m, and a 20m-wide dome, the exterior of the cathedral adopts a Baroque style. The interior, on the other hand, takes on a neo-Gothic style, with décor resembling more contemporary and “pop-art” designs. Head down to the building that literally took centuries to build, and explore the museum to learn more about its history as well as the Archdiocese of Madrid. Not forgetting, the cathedral is also home to the beautiful crypt with neo-romanesque and byzantine influences. Don’t forget to end off your visit with a spectacular view of Madrid from the dome at the top!