Madrid, Spain
Royal Palace of El Pardo (Palacio Real de El Pardo)

A palace that is part of Spain’s National Heritage list, now hosts foreign State of Heads on official visits.

Palacio Real de El Pardo found humble beginnings as a royal hunting lodge because of the abounding game on its grounds. However, it was later transformed into a palace in 1547 by Emperor Carlos V. Now, spanning 16,000 hectares, this royal palace is listed in Spain's National Heritage list. The Royal Palace of El Pardo was also home to Francisco Franco, the Spanish dictator and general from 1939 to 1975, where important decisions were being made at this particular palace.


The interior of this palace sets it apart from the plethora of beautiful palaces scattered across Madrid. Palacio Real de El Pardo harbors one-of-a-kind cascading tapestries, created by imitating compositions of esteemed artists like Bayeu and Goya. 18th and 19th-century furniture are carefully preserved and even utilized when hosting foreign State of Heads on their formal visits to Spain. When not acting as a gracious host, this magnificent castle entices visitors to be part of its history - standing welcoming and charming under the rays of the Madridian sun.


Read More

Tips Before You Go
Do note that visiting the palace is only possible via an official guided tour. Also in close proximity of the Palacio Real de El Pardo stands the majestic Casita del Principe and the The Christ, an elegant church with a beautiful sculpture in the village of El Pardo, so do consider putting that in your itinerary as well.
40.5212755
-3.7750482000000147
Calle Manuel Alonso, s/n, 28001 Madrid, Spain