Almudena Cathedral

What to expect

Almudena Cathedral stands directly opposite the Royal Palace and took more than a century to finish. Work began in 1883 to a neo-Gothic design by Francisco de Cubas, was later reworked, and the church was consecrated by Pope John Paul II in 1993. Its exterior blends in with the palace's classical look, while the interior is surprisingly modern in feel.

Inside you find a bright nave with contemporary art, mosaics and icons by modern artists, rather than a dark medieval church. A neo-Romanesque crypt below holds a sixteenth-century image of the Virgen de la Almudena, Madrid's patron saint. It is a working church, so some areas can close for services. Most visits take 30 to 45 minutes.

Don't miss

• The neo-Romanesque crypt
• Image of the Virgen de la Almudena
• Mosaics in the Blessed Sacrament Chapel
• Modern icons in the apse
• Façade facing the Royal Palace

Tips for your visit

• Dress modestly and keep your voice down; it is an active place of worship.
• Visit right after the Royal Palace, since the two stand across a small square.
• Check the schedule for services before you go if you want to see the whole interior.
• Stroll on to the Plaza de Oriente or the Sabatini Gardens afterwards.