Madrid Spain Temple: History, Architecture, and Travel Guide

Where It's Located

The Madrid Spain Temple is located at Calle del Templo 2, 28030 Madrid, Spain, in the Moratalaz district of eastern Madrid. The temple sits on a beautifully landscaped 6-acre site that also includes a meetinghouse, patron housing, a distribution center, and the Spain Missionary Training Center (MTC). There is no visitors' center on the temple grounds. (churchofjesuschristtemples.org)

Getting There

The nearest major airport is Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (MAD), located about 9 miles (15 kilometers) from the temple. Travelers from the United States can reach Madrid on nonstop or one-stop flights from cities such as New York, Boston, Washington, D.C., Miami, Dallas, Chicago, Atlanta, and Los Angeles. From the airport, the temple is typically a 20- to 30-minute drive, depending on traffic, and is also accessible by Madrid's extensive public transportation system. (churchofjesuschristtemples.org)

A Bit of History

The Madrid Spain Temple was announced by President Spencer W. Kimball on April 1, 1981, as part of the historic announcement of nine new temples during General Conference. It became the first temple in Spain, the third temple in Europe, and the 56th operating temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Before its dedication, members in Spain traveled long distances to attend the Bern Switzerland Temple or later the London England Temple. (churchofjesuschristtemples.org)

Groundbreaking services were held on February 11, 1993, with Elder James E. Faust presiding. More than 33,000 visitors toured the temple during its public open house. President Gordon B. Hinckley dedicated the temple on March 19, 1999, making it the 56th operating temple of the Church. The dedication fulfilled decades of faithful anticipation by Latter-day Saints throughout Spain and neighboring Portugal. (churchofjesuschristtemples.org)

Design and Architecture

The Madrid Spain Temple contains approximately 45,800 square feet of floor space. Its exterior is finished with Blanco Crystal granite from Spain and features a single attached central spire topped with an angel Moroni statue. The architecture combines classic temple design with elegant European influences, creating a distinctive landmark within the Madrid metropolitan area. (churchofjesuschristtemples.org)

Inside, the temple includes four instruction rooms, four sealing rooms, and one baptistry. Rich wood finishes, fine stonework, and decorative art inspired by Spanish culture create a peaceful and reverent atmosphere for worship. The surrounding gardens, fountains, and mature landscaping further enhance the beauty of the temple grounds. (churchofjesuschristtemples.org)

Final Thoughts

The Madrid Spain Temple stands as a historic milestone in the growth of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on the Iberian Peninsula. As Spain's first temple, it has blessed generations of members from Spain, Portugal, and surrounding nations by making temple worship far more accessible. Its beautiful architecture, peaceful grounds, and enduring significance continue to make it one of Europe's most beloved temples. (churchofjesuschristtemples.org)

Scott & Riah
Brough Made
https://broughmade.com

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