Situated in the mountains of El Pardo, just to the north of Madrid, the Zarzuela Palace has been the Spanish royal family's home since 1963. The three-storey building, which takes its name from the zarza bushes, or brambles, which surround the property, was constructed in the 17th century during Philip IV's reign. It was later rebuilt by Charles IV. The popular, Spanish-style operetta to which the palace gave its name was first performed there in 1657.
The King has his offices on the raised ground floor, which also houses the dining room, library, reception rooms and kitchen. Guest bedrooms occupy the top floor, with the basement being mainly dedicated to storage rooms.
In the 1990s, two single-storey wings were added to the sides of the house. One consists of the private quarters of the royal family, the other contains more offices and is where the family's protection officers are located. The royal complex also includes a fitness area, a helipad and a small chapel.
The official royal website can be found at www.casareal.es
