Madrid 1830, the historical model by Gil de Palacio at the Museum of History of Madrid
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The historical model by Gil de Palacio is a scale urban model that accurately recreates Madrid at the beginning of the 19th century. Designed to document the city and support urban and military decision-making, it allows a quick understanding of the walls, gates, streets and main buildings before the major modern expansions.
Where is the model exhibited?
It is on display at the Museum of History of Madrid (former Hospice of San Fernando), on Fuencarral Street, in the city centre. The model room features display cases and walkways that make observation from different angles easy.
When and how was it made?
It was made around 1830 by engineer and cartographer León Gil de Palacio, based on topographic surveys and maps of the time. It was constructed with lightweight materials (wood, cork and cardboard, among others), modelled and hand-painted to represent relief, blocks and the main architectural landmarks of the city.
Why is it so significant?
- Unique document: it captures Madrid's appearance before the major 19th-century transformations.
- Educational value: it helps to understand the urban layout, the walled enclosures and the relationship with the Manzanares river.
- Technical quality: it combines cartographic rigour and artisanal skill, becoming a reference work for historical and urban studies.
What can we see during the visit?
- Historic walls and gates, such as Alcalá, Toledo or Segovia, which organized access to the city.
- Major landmarks of the urban landscape: Plaza Mayor, Royal Palace, Puerta de Alcalá, convents and barracks.
- Street and square pattern, with the compact old town and roads to the suburbs.
- Relief and waterways, with the Manzanares and its bridges integrated into the model.
- Lighting and panels that help locate areas and compare 1830 with the present-day city.
How is the visit organised?
Admission to the museum is free. The visit to the model room is self-guided, with explanatory panels and, occasionally, commented visits. Check opening hours before you go.
Where to find schedules and activities?
Check the official website of the Museum of History of Madrid (City Council of Madrid) for opening times, possible activities and guided tours.
What else to see nearby?
- The museum's baroque façade, a masterpiece by Pedro de Ribera.
- Romanticism Museum, a few minutes' walk away.
- Malasaña and Chueca neighbourhoods, with shops, cafés and lively squares.
- San Antonio de los Alemanes church, a jewel decorated with frescoes covering vaults and walls.
In short, Madrid 1830 is an immersion into the city before modernity: a piece that turns urban history into a three-dimensional landscape that is easy to understand and fascinating to behold.
How to get there
C/ Fuencarral, 78. Madrid. Metro Tribunal.
Decimal: 40.425833°, -3.700833°
DMS: 40°25'33" N, 3°42'03" O
