The principle church of the Diocese of Madrid, this cathedral is a relatively modern building, started in 1883 and not completed until 1993. The Cathedral is consecrated to Santa Maria de la Almudena, a name which has arabic origins: al mudayna, meaning "the castle".

The building is a mixture of styles with a neoclassical exterior, a gothic revival interior and a neo-romanesque crypt. It is made of granite and marble, with a large neoclassical cupola and two towers at the main entrance. It stands next to the Palacio Real, separated from it by a spacious square, the Plaza de la Armería.

Catedral de Santa María la Real de la Almudena

Calle de Bailén, 10, 28013 Madrid

Opening Times

The Cathedral is closed to visitors during Mass.