Santa María la Real de La Almudena (Almudena Church and museum)

The Almudena Church (Santa María la Real de La Almudena) is one of the most prominent landmarks in Spain. The church retains the ground and some of the architectural features of a regular church but has a bold modern flair. Sit outside and admire the towering facade, then head inside to explore the neo-Gothic interior. As you wander through the nave, you'll see modern folk-style stained-glass windows, colorful ceiling art, and works by artists old and new.

Walk along the spacious aisles inside the cathedral, where Prince Felipe of Spain married Letizia Ortiz Rocasolano in 2004. Imagine the grandeur of this royal ceremony as visitors look on. around the cathedral measures 341 feet (104 meters) long and 249 feet (76 meters) wide. The central dome is 20 meters in diameter. Climb up to the dome's viewing platform for breathtaking views across the city.

Although planning to build the church began in the 16th century, the church was not completed until 1993, and was consecrated that same year by Pope John Paul II. Find the statue praising the pope in front of the church.

The construction delay caused the church to have two architectural styles: neoclassical outside and neo-Gothic inside. The catacombs, the oldest part of the church, are neo-Gothic while the exterior is designed to better match the adjacent neoclassical Royal Palace.

Explore the catacombs to admire an image of the Virgin of Almudena in the 16th century or head to the west end of the nave to see 15th-century church decorations. Visit the on-site museum to learn about its history. history of the church and the Diocese of Madrid. The museum displays clerical costumes and other artifacts.

Almudena Church is located along Calle Bailén, right next to the Royal Palace. The nearest metro station is Ópera. The church is open daily, while the museum has different operating hours. Check before visiting. Visitors can enter the building for free, but must pay entrance fees to the museum and viewing platform.

Business hours:

Open Monday to Saturday: 10:00 - 14:30

Closed Sunday

Fare:

Adult: 6 €

Children 10 - 16 years old, elderly people over 65 years old: 4 €

Children under 9 years old: Free

Tel: +34 915 59 28 74

Website: https://museocatedral.archimadrid.es/