The Changing of the Guard at the Royal Palace of Madrid consists of two different types of reliefs.
In both parades, the uniforms used are those from the times of Alfonso XIII. If you go with children, it is advisable to arrive well in advance.
The Solemn Relief
It replicates the changing of the guard that took place during the reigns of Alfonso XII and Alfonso XIII.
In this solemn changing of the guard, more than 400 soldiers and over 100 horses participate, and it lasts approximately 50 minutes.
The music unit, with its chords, is responsible for initiating the solemn changing of the guard at the Royal Palace. The fifes and drums accompany their march, while the incoming guard awaits the outgoing one.
The parade includes lancers and halberdiers, rifle companies, and soldiers with artillery pieces and ammunition carts, accompanied by a music unit, for almost an hour. Fifes and drums accompany their march.
It takes place in the Plaza de la Armería in Madrid, and if you arrive early, you can watch the relief from the stairs of the Almudena Cathedral.
When: First Wednesday of every month
Price: Free
Address: Plaza de la Armería, Madrid
This ceremony takes place throughout the year except for the months of January, August, and September.
The Light Relief
It lasts approximately 7 minutes. It involves four members of the Royal Guard, two on foot and two on horseback, accompanied by a fife and a drum. The mounted soldiers, every 15 minutes and not coinciding with the soldiers on foot, move in front of the Royal Palace.
In total, 27 guards and 6 horses participated.
The changes are made every half hour by the soldiers on foot and every hour by the horses until 2:00 p.m.
This change of guard takes place in front of the Puerta del Príncipe on Bailén Street.
When: Every Wednesday and Saturday of the month
Price: Free
Address: Puerta del Príncipe
More information: Official website of the Royal Guard
Things to see nearby
You have the Crypt, the Cathedral, and the Royal Palace itself.
From this area, you can also visit the top 10 most visited places in Madrid, but we especially recommend this itinerary for visiting Madrid in one day.
Our nearest accommodations
Near this location, we have apartments in city center and apartments in El Retiro area. However, if you’re looking for a less-touristy area, we have apartments in Salamanca neighborhood.
Accommodations by category: list of apartments for corporate stays or list of apartments for students, or our daily rental apartments near Serrano Street and Paseo de la Castellana, in the Escultor Building.
If you’re an investor or a property owner, we can help you maximize the performance of your property.
