At the Royal Observatory in Madrid you can admire a valuable collection of astronomical instruments, e.g. a replica of the Herschel telescope, a meridian wheel from the 19th century and the Foucault pendulum. There is also a library with an extensive book collection. The observatory was entered in the register of monuments.
The library has approximately 6,000 books in astronomy and geography. All antique instruments can be viewed in the Earth Hall and the Universe. During the tour, guests will learn about the 220-year history of this place and learn about the details of formerly conducted scientific activity.
The first plans to build the Royal Observatory in Madrid were made during the reign of King Charles III. The main originator was the sailor Jorge Juan, who was known at that time, and who founded the observatory in Cadiz. The building was designed by Juan de Villanueva. Construction began at the end of the 18th century on a hill near today's Retiro Park.