Inside Madrid’s Royal Palace, the Royal Armoury holds the personal arms of Spain’s monarchs, along with weapons, horse armour, tapestries and other works from the royal collection. Its displays include decorative armour associated with Emperor Charles V and King Felipe II, as well as pieces made for young princes and even medieval dogs. Look closely at the engraved details and compare equipment for people and horses. Admission to the armoury is included with a Royal Palace visit, so it makes a natural follow-up stop.
The royal collection
The Royal Armoury brings together the personal arms of Spain’s kings with military equipment and other works from the royal collection. The objects span generations of monarchs and include weapons and armour from different regions, among them southern Germany, northern Italy, Toledo and Madrid.
The collection is not limited to equipment for battle. Tapestries, paintings and other artworks sit alongside the arms, and ceremonial pieces show the decorative skill invested in royal armour.
Armour for monarchs, horses and princes
Decorative full armour associated with Emperor Charles V and King Felipe II is among the collection’s notable pieces. Look for the armour made for young royal princes, as well as equipment designed for horses. The displays also include armour for medieval dogs, an unusual reminder of how widely protective gear could be made.
Swords, spears, shields and guns give a broader view of the weapons kept alongside the armour. Engraving and other fine details reward a close look at the surfaces, not only the overall shape of each suit.
Planning your visit
The armoury is at the Royal Palace of Madrid, and admission is included with a visit to the palace. Its displays occupy two floors. There is limited information about individual objects inside, so a book on armour can help add context to what you see.
Photography is not permitted inside. Postcards and souvenirs are an option if you want a keepsake. Plan for roughly 30 to 45 minutes to see the collection.
Preguntas frecuentes
Is admission to the Royal Armoury included with a Royal Palace visit?
Yes. Admission to the armoury is included with a visit to the Royal Palace.
How long does a visit to the Royal Armoury take?
Allow about 30 to 45 minutes to see the collection.
Can you take photos inside the Royal Armoury?
No. Photography is not allowed inside.
