Madrid · Royal and Habsburg Madrid
Almudena Cathedral
Madrid's cathedral stands across the square from the Royal Palace. It was consecrated in 1993 after more than a century of construction. Entry to the cathedral is free, and a donation of 1 euro is requested.
- 45 min
- Free
- Booking: not needed
- Royal and Habsburg Madrid
Data checked on October 4, 2026
Construction started in 1883 and the cathedral was consecrated by Pope John Paul II in 1993. The outside is neoclassical, to match the Royal Palace across the street. The nave is neo-Gothic with a painted ceiling in modern colours. Below, the neo-Romanesque crypt is a separate and older-looking space, and the Virgin of La Almudena is the patron saint of the city.
What to look for
- The painted ceiling of the nave
- The neo-Romanesque crypt
- The image of the Virgin of La Almudena
Opening hours
| Monday | 10:00 am–8:30 pm | |
|---|---|---|
| Tuesday | 10:00 am–8:30 pm | |
| Wednesday | 10:00 am–8:30 pm | |
| Thursday | 10:00 am–8:30 pm | |
| Friday | 10:00 am–8:30 pm | |
| Saturday | 10:00 am–8:30 pm | |
| Sunday | 10:00 am–8:30 pm |
Open daily 10:00 to 20:30, and until 21:00 in July and August. Tourist visits are not possible during religious services.
Source: esMadrid, checked October 4, 2026
Tickets and booking
Free.
Getting there
Ópera (Metro lines 2 and 5) is about an 8 minute walk, and the cathedral stands directly opposite the palace.
Tip
Pair it with the palace. The cathedral is a short stop unless you add the museum.