The Almudena Cathedral is one of the most impressive religious monuments in Madrid. Its characteristic neo-Gothic style stands out in comparison to other cathedrals of the same style. Moreover, its dimensions and majesty leave anyone who visits it speechless.
Once you have finished admiring its imposing façade, don’t hesitate to go inside. Discover the different rooms and features that make up this cathedral that took more than 110 years to build. You can learn about its history and discover all its architectural and ornamental wonders. This is not one to miss!
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History of the Almudena Cathedral Madrid
The Almudena Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of Santa María la Real de la Almudena, is a religious temple dedicated to the Virgin of Almudena. Construction began in December 1868, after the destruction of the first cathedral due to the revolution of the same year.
Initially, this cathedral began as a church. It was the Congregación de Esclavos de la Virgen de la Almudena (Congregation of Slaves of the Virgin of the Almudena) who asked the kings for permission to build this temple on the land in front of the Royal Palace. The architect Francisco de Cubas y Montes was in charge of the construction, while the Marquis of Cubas was in charge of designing the cathedral.
This cathedral has an impressive French neo-Gothic flowery style, giving it a unique atmosphere. Its construction was slow, as the death of the marquis meant that the project had to be handed over to new architects: Enrique Repullés y Vargas, Juan Moya and Miguel Olabarría. The last reforms were carried out by Carlos Sidro de la Puerta and Fernando Chueca Goitia, who had the opportunity to adapt the cathedral to its surroundings.
After 110 years of extensions and modifications, the construction of the Almudena Cathedral was completed on 15 June 1993. Nowadays, it is one of the most important religious temples in Madrid, with an incredible architectural and ornamental wealth both in its façade and interior.
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What to see in the Almudena Cathedral?
Inside the Cathedral
As soon as you enter the cathedral, you will be able to see the Latin cross plan structure, with a central nave and two side naves. You will also be able to see the chapel of the Virgin, located on one of the sides, being one of the main features to visit inside the cathedral.
You can walk through its different naves whilst admiring all its architectural and decorative features, from its columns to the famous altar of Santa María la Real de la Almudena. Another of the elements that will catch your eye are the stained glass windows, as well as the decorative ceilings, the organ and, above all, the interior of the dome.
Cathedral Museum
One of our favourite things to do is to visit the Almudena Cathedral Museum. It is located just past the main façade of the cathedral, which is in front of the Royal Palace. The aim of this museum is to preserve the testimonies of the history of the diocese of Madrid.
During this visit, you will be able to see two of the most important areas of the cathedral: the Sacristía Mayor and the Sala Capitular. You can also visit the permanent exhibition where you can see various religious objects that once belonged to the old parish of Santa María de la Almudena. Before reaching the dome, you can visit its very interesting art gallery.
Finally, if you visit the museum you can access the dome, more than 70 metres high, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of Madrid. You will also be able to admire the majesty of the Royal Palace and the Plaza de Oriente. You will love it!
- The price to enter the Almudena Cathedral Museum is €6 for both the guided tour and the free visit. The price is reduced to €4 for students, pensioners and residents of Madrid.
- Visiting hours to the Almudena Cathedral are from Monday to Friday from 10:30 to 14:00 and from 17:00 to 20:00, while on Saturdays and Sundays it is open from 10:30 to 20:00.
Cathedral Crypt
The Cathedral Crypt is one of the least visited areas, but no less beautiful or important. You can access it by going down to the lower part of the cathedral. You will be fascinated by its size and, especially, by the neo-Romanesque style it exudes.
You can walk through its many corridors decorated with columns, where you can see different scenes or figures from the Bible and nature represented on their capitals. This room is very well lit, mainly due to its stained glass windows. It will certainly become one of your favourite parts of the Almudena Cathedral.
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What to see in the area around the Almudena Cathedral?
Plaza Mayor
The Plaza Mayor, located less than 10 minutes walk from the Almudena Cathedral, is one of the main places to visit near the cathedral. Being right in the historic centre, you will have great access to other points of interest.
It is also the ideal place to stop for lunch or dinner, as it offers endless options and incredible entertainment. Depending on the time of the year you visit Madrid, you can enjoy some of the celebrations that take place in this square. To know more about this city, don’t hesitate to read our post: Things to do and see in Madrid.
Puerta del Sol
Puerta del Sol is, without a doubt, one of the most emblematic places to see in Madrid. It is located very close to the Almudena Cathedral, so you can reach it by taking a pleasant stroll through the city centre.
This square is considered Spain’s kilometre zero, where you can also discover its great historical and cultural value. It is one of the busiest spots in Madrid, where you’ll find one of its most famous metro stops, as well as live music and people from all over.
El Retiro Park
Although it is not so close to the Almudena Cathedral, we definitely recommend visiting the famous Retiro Park in Madrid. This incredible expanse of green space will allow you to enjoy absolute tranquillity in the heart of the city.
It is also the ideal place to visit with children, as there are endless activities to do with the family, as well as different iconic points to visit. There is even a bar where you can stop to rest and have a drink before continuing with the visits. Discover all that this impressive park has to offer in our post: Retiro Park Madrid.
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How to plan your visit to the Almudena Cathedral?
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