Madrid - Barracks of the Count-Duke
(Local Name: Cuartel del Conde-Duque) The Barracks of the Count-Duke (named after the Conde-Duque de Olivares, Philip IV's Minister) were built in 1720 to the design of Philip V's architect Pedro Ribera. They were made necessary by the new military policy of the Bourbons, who wished to have troops permanently stationed in the capital.
The barracks, planned on an enormous scale, flank three inner courtyards, forming a unity with the Palacio de Liria and its gardens. They were first occupied by the Royal Bodyguard, later by cavalry and finally by the Military Academy. For 150 years they defended the northwestern approach to the capital. The long ranges of plain brick buildings, now empty and rather dilapidated, have an air of austerity and grimness. Only the handsome main entrance recalls the architect who created the Hospicio de San Fernando and the Puente de Toledo.
The barracks, planned on an enormous scale, flank three inner courtyards, forming a unity with the Palacio de Liria and its gardens. They were first occupied by the Royal Bodyguard, later by cavalry and finally by the Military Academy. For 150 years they defended the northwestern approach to the capital. The long ranges of plain brick buildings, now empty and rather dilapidated, have an air of austerity and grimness. Only the handsome main entrance recalls the architect who created the Hospicio de San Fernando and the Puente de Toledo.
Hobbies & Activities category: Town walls, fortifications, gates; Military attraction or museum
Barracks of the Count-Duke Highlights
Centro Cultural Conde Duque
After restoration lasting a number of years the historic Barracks of the Count-Duke now house the cultural center "Centro Cultural Conde-Duque", the city archives (open 10am-2.30pm), the city
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