Hugo got a chance to go into the Royal Palace on a tour; unfortunately I wasn’t feeling great that afternoon, so the next morning we walked around the palace (and the Almudena Cathedral) a bit to see the outside of both and the beautiful sights over parts of the city we never ventured into.

Wide-angle view of the Royal Palace of Madrid, with its grand neoclassical façade featuring rows of tall columns, numerous windows, and ornate sculptures. The Spanish flag flies prominently from the roof. The expansive forecourt in front of the building is paved with geometric stone patterns, and scattered visitors walk or stand, giving a sense of scale to the immense structure. The sky is clear and blue, enhancing the elegance and formality of the architecture.Closer view of the central section of the Royal Palace of Madrid, highlighting the symmetrical stonework, decorative columns, and arched doorways. A large clock is set into the ornate pediment above the entrance, flanked by classical statues. The Spanish flag waves atop the building, and several people move across the stone courtyard in the foreground, some pausing to admire the architecture.Panoramic view of the Madrid cityscape with dense urban buildings stretching to the horizon. In the foreground, a sea of green treetops forms a natural contrast to the red and brown rooftops and modern high-rises beyond. The clear sky adds depth and vibrancy, enhancing the layered textures of trees, mid-century blocks, and distant towers.View of the Almudena Cathedral’s bell tower and façade taken from below, emphasizing the tower’s verticality and classical detailing. A dark bronze statue of a bearded figure holding a scroll stands prominently on the right, casting a shadow on the stone wall. A group of people is gathered in the shaded area near the base, while others sit on the steps along the cathedral’s base under a bright sky.Lively street-level view of the Almudena Cathedral from an angle that showcases its detailed exterior, including baroque and neoclassical elements, multiple spires, and the central dome. Crowds gather at the cathedral’s entrance, and a person in a Stitch costume adds a playful touch near signage for the museum. The vibrant activity and crisp shadows emphasize the warm, sunny day.Street scene in front of the Almudena Cathedral with a mix of tourists, vehicles, and historic architecture. The cathedral’s ornate dome and towers rise prominently against a clear blue sky. A steady flow of cars, including a marked taxi and an ambulance, passes along the busy road. Trees and signage frame the scene, capturing the dynamic intersection of city life and monumental history.