Museo de la Catedral de la Almudena in Madrid: Your Guide

Although Madrid became the capital of Spain in 1561, it did not have its own cathedral, as the ecclesiastical seat remained in Toledo. Plans for a cathedral dedicated to the Virgin of Almudena were discussed as early as the 16th century, but the cost of maintaining the empire led to its postponement.

The construction of the Almudena Cathedral began in 1883, following the original plan for a parochial church designed by Francisco de Cubas. The foundation stone was laid in this year.

Initially planned as a parochial church, the design for the Almudena Cathedral was changed to a Gothic Revival style after Pope Leo XIII approved the creation of the Madrid-Alcalá bishopric in 1885, altering the original plans.

After construction was interrupted by the Spanish Civil War and the site lay abandoned until 1950, Fernando Chueca Goitia adapted the plans. He modified the design to feature a Baroque exterior that would match the grey and white façade of the Royal Palace opposite.

The construction of the Almudena Cathedral spanned over a century, beginning in 1883 and finally concluding with its consecration in 1993.

The Almudena Cathedral was finally completed and consecrated by Pope John Paul II on June 15, 1993, marking the culmination of over a century of construction.

Ramón González Barrón was appointed as the choirmaster at the Almudena Cathedral in 1946.

The Almudena Cathedral was the venue for the marriage of King Felipe VI (then crown prince) to Letizia Ortiz Rocasolano on May 22, 2004.

The Neo-Gothic interior of the cathedral is distinctively modern, featuring chapels and statues by contemporary artists. The styles range from historical revivals to pop-art decor, with mosaics in the Blessed Sacrament Chapel by Marko Ivan Rupnik and icons in the apse by Kiko Argüello.

The Neo-Romanesque crypt of the cathedral contains a 16th-century image of the Virgen de la Almudena. Excavations nearby have also revealed remains of Moorish and medieval city walls.

Francisco de Cubas designed the original plans for the Almudena Cathedral, which began construction in 1883. He is also buried at the cathedral.

The cathedral's final appearance was significantly influenced by its location opposite the Royal Palace of Madrid, with its design considering this regal surrounding.