Attractions

While touring the Palacio Real (Royal Palace) is not free, stepping back in time by watching the weekly changing of the Royal Guard certainly is, though you better get to Plaza de la Armería or huddle on the steps of La Almudena Cathedral early to get a good view. Each Wednesday, between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., 27 guards and six horses march to fife and drums in front of the Royal Palace's facade, relieving an infantryman or soldier on horseback every half an hour. On the first Wednesday of each month, what's called the solemn changing of the guard is enacted, involving more than 400 people and 100 horses, much as that performed in the days of Alfonso XII and XIII.

Cobble together your own tour of seven centuries of architecture following Es Madrid's architecture page. Start in the 14th century at the Mudejar Chapel of Santa Maria de la Antigua. Wander into the 15th century by passing by the Casa de los Lujanes, once the tallest building in the capital. Next, marvel at the 16th-century Plateresque facade of the Monastery of the Descalzas Reales. Unwind with a café con leche (coffee with milk) at one of the many outdoor cafes lining Plaza Mayor, a breathtaking example of 17th-century architecture. The Royal Palace and the Prado exemplify two different styles of 18th-century architecture, the Baroque and neoclassical, respectively. Moving along into the 19th century, check out the Bank of Spain, more palace than bank. The Cybele Palace, a telecommunications facility, is our 20th-century stop. Finally, move into the future of the 21st century at the Madrid River Project, a regeneration of bridges and conduit to the cultural institutions the Casa de Campo and Matadero Madrid.