Solemn Changing of the Guard

The guard shift at the Royal Palace has emerged as a top attraction in the city, drawing crowds for over a decade. This tradition echoes the ceremonies from the era of Alfonso XIII and previous rulers, involving over 400 participants and 100 horses on every first Wednesday of the month. Spectators gather to watch as guards, adorned in historical uniforms, and horses reenact the historic ceremony, complete with military and ceremonial elements. The event kicks off at noon with a musical performance, setting the stage for the exchange between the incoming and outgoing guards.

Additionally, every Wednesday at the Puerta del Príncipe, palace sentinels, including both mounted and foot guards wearing ceremonial attire reminiscent of the Spanish army's uniforms from Alfonso XIII's reign, switch places every half hour to the rhythm of military marches. This spectacle has become a must-see for visitors to Madrid, highlighting the Royal Guard's deep-rooted history, dating back to the 15th century, and solidifying its status as a key cultural draw for the city.

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