Palacio de Liria Madrid

Aristocracy in Madrid

Beatriz from Madrid

"Hidden in plain sight, the Palacio de Liria blends aristocratic grandeur with artistic treasures—Madrid’s quiet gem where past and present meet."

The Palacio de Liria is one of Madrid’s most quietly majestic surprises, a noble residence still inhabited by the House of Alba and often overlooked even by locals. You can walk across the city a hundred times and never suspect that inside the city center lies such an extraordinary palace. At least in my case, I had never noticed it, until I finally decided to step inside.

Known as the "little brother of the Royal Palace," Liria houses a remarkable private collection of paintings, tapestries, books, and letters from figures like Goya, Rubens, and Columbus. But it’s not just a place rooted in the past. The palace regularly hosts exhibitions by contemporary artists, creating an unexpected and elegant dialogue between tradition and modernity.

Whether you're drawn to aristocratic history, fine art, or simply looking for a moment of calm beauty, Palacio de Liria offers a quiet, enriching escape and a reminder that some of Madrid’s greatest treasures are hidden in plain sight.

Don’t forget to visit the palace gardens and, for the curious, the small pet cemetery of the Alba family, an endearing and unexpected detail that makes the experience even more memorable.

Art & culture

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Madrid Spotter Beatriz

Hi! I'm Bea! Born and raised in Madrid, I’m a geographer with a passion for places—not just maps and landscapes, but the stories, streets, and people that bring them to life. I love wandering through neighborhoods (both at home and when I travel), always on the lookout for spots that feel genuine, lived-in, and full of personality. I'm also a CrossFit enthusiast and a big fan of discovering cities on the run—literally! For me, a perfect day might include a good workout followed by a great coffee or snack in a place that tells its own story. To me, places are emotions, memorie...

About this spot

Calle de la Princesa 20

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May 19, 2025

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