In 2021, the Observatory entered the UNESCO World Heritage List as part of the so-called Paisaje de la Luz.

In the 18th century, the scientist and naval officer Jorge Juan proposed to Charles III to create an astronomical observatory in Madrid.

This is a prime example of the Age of Enlightenment in Spain, as part of an urban planning combining science and neoclassical architecture.

After the Peninsular War, the Observatory underwent a period of decadence until its refoundation in the middle of the 19th century under the reign of Isabella II.

The building is highly symmetric, with a slender portico which defines the main facade, with columns topped with capitals of the Corinthian order.

The building underwent a restoration in the mid-19th century by Pascual Colomer, who decided to add the two small domes next to the lantern in the side facing the portico.

Conditions are much better in other parts of Spanish territory, notably the Canary Islands, the second-best location for optical and infrared astronomy in the Northern Hemisphere, after Mauna Kea Observatory, Hawaii.