On the west side of Madrid lies the Palacio Real. The Palacio is no longer the residence of the King, however, it is still used for official state functions. Originally this was the site of a Muslim Fortress constructed in the 9th century by Mohammed I, Emir of Córdoba. It continued to stay under Muslim control until Alfonso VI of Castile took control of Madrid in 1085. After the Castillians took control, the fortress was rarely used until 1561 when Philip II moved the royal court to Madrid.
The present day palace was finished in 1755and was designed by Filippo Juvarra and Giovanni Battista Tiepolo in cooperation with Ventura Rodríguez, Francesco Sabatini, and Martín Sarmiento. Today, as well as being used for official state functions the palace also houses a large museum with artifacts from throughout Madrids history. The Palace is impressive, but has a number of plazas and gardens around it that create a royal complex that is not only beautiful but also gives a glimpse of Madrids amazing history.
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