Nuevo Rezado, building in Madrid
Nuevo Rezado is a neoclassical house in Madrid designed with balanced proportions and clean lines that reflect the architectural approach of the late 1700s. The building displays symmetrical windows, a decorated entrance, and a roof that extends smoothly over the walls, featuring the hallmarks of its style.
Built in the late 1700s by architect Juan de Villanueva to house and print prayer books for El Escorial monks, the building lost its religious purpose in 1836 when it was transferred to the Royal Academy of History. The academy moved in permanently in 1852 and has remained there since.
The house takes its name from its original purpose of storing prayer books for monks from the El Escorial monastery. A grill symbol on the front facade references Saint Lorenzo and serves as a visible reminder of the building's religious past.
The house is located near the streets of del León, Santa María and las Huertas in Madrid's historic center and is easy to find. The neighborhood features narrow streets and old buildings filled with cafes and shops, making it pleasant to explore the area on foot.
During its construction, the delivery of materials was so impressive that Madrid residents watched in amazement as crates were pulled through the city by many horses. Officially declared a national monument in 1945, the building now houses a library holding more than 200.000 books, including five paintings by Goya.
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