The Royal Palace of Madrid, known in Spanish as Palacio Real de Madrid, is the official residence of the Spanish Royal Family in Madrid, but it is only used for state ceremonies. King Felipe VI and the Royal family do not reside in this grandiose palace, preferring the more modest Palacio de la Zarzuela on the outskirts of Madrid. The history of the Royal Palace begins in the 9th century when the Muslim Kingdom of Toledo built a defensive fortress, which was later used by the Kings of Castille, until it was converted into the Alcázar (a Moorish castle) in the 16th century. Tragically, on Christmas Eve in 1734, the Alcázar was destroyed by a fire. King Philip V, who was an admirer of French architecture, decided to construct a magnificent palace that would overshadow all other European royal residences. Construction started in 1738 and it took seventeen years to complete. Covering an area of 135,000 square meters and containing 3,418 rooms, the Royal Palace of Madrid is the largest royal palace in Western Europe. The exterior of the palace is a marvel of Italianate baroque style, with its white facade and grey-blue roof tiles. The Sabatini and Campo del Moro gardens, which surround the palace, contribute to its grandeur and elegance. Inside, the palace is a treasure trove of artistic and historical artifacts, from frescoes painted by the great Italian artist Tiepolo to Stradivarius violins. Some of the standout rooms include the Hall of Mirrors, influenced by its Versailles counterpart, the opulent Throne Room, with its crimson velvet wall coverings and ceiling fresco depicting the Spanish monarchy, and the Royal Chapel, which houses a collection of string instruments made by the legendary Antonio Stradivari. The Royal Palace of Madrid also contains a pharmacy with hundreds of bottles of early medicines and a Royal Armory, boasting one of the finest collections of armor in the world. The palace's dining hall, capable of seating up to 140 people, is awe-inspiring; the room is often used for state banquets. The Royal Palace of Madrid is not just a symbol of power and wealth, but also a testament to the history, culture, and artistry of Spain. It offers visitors a glimpse into the lives of the Spanish monarchy, from the grandeur of state occasions to the intricacies of daily life. This majestic palace, with its splendid architecture and priceless collections, truly stands as a proud embodiment of Spanish heritage.