The Royal Guard, aiming to preserve and showcase the customs of the ancient Royal Household Troops, offers the public the opportunity to witness this parade. Guards wear their gala uniforms, inspired by those of the Spanish army during the reign of Alfonso XIII, featuring the distinctive red, blue, and white colors.
This ceremony, held on the first Wednesday of each month (except in January, August, and September) at 12 PM, lasts approximately 50 minutes. It begins with the establishment of guard posts in the Plaza de la Armería and unfolds through a series of ceremonial movements, including troop inspections, the entry and parade of the outgoing and incoming guards, and the reliefs of commanders and artillery and cavalry sentinels.
Thus, lancers and halberdiers, rifle companies, military personnel – men and women – in charge of artillery pieces and ammunition carts parade for almost an hour. A spectacular re-enactment of the changing of the guard as it was done in the times of Kings Alfonso XII and Alfonso XIII.
The Music Unit accompanies the event with military marches and usually offers a concert in the loggia of the Puerta del Príncipe, located on Bailén Street, at the conclusion of the changing of the guard.
In addition to the Solemn Changing of the Guard, the Royal Palace also hosts the 'Changing of the Guard' at the Puerta del Príncipe. This spectacle, held every Wednesday since 2007 and Saturdays since 2016, has a summer schedule (June 15 to September 15) from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM, and a winter schedule (September 15 to June 15) from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM. During this changing of the guard, foot and mounted Royal Guards exchange their posts every 30 minutes and every hour, respectively.
Both events are free and open to the public, enjoying great popularity. It is recommended to arrive early to secure a good spot and fully enjoy these historical representations.
