Royal Monastery of El Escorial Tickets and Information
- Royal Monastery of El Escorial Address: Av Juan de Borbón y Battemberg, s/n, 28200, Madrid.
- Opening Hours: Daily from 10:00 - 18:00
Is Royal Monastery of El Escorial Worth Visiting
- If you are a fan of historical buildings, definitely.
- If you are a fan of art and frescoes, definitely.
- Architecture fans will also enjoy it.
What You See At The Royal Monastery of El Escorial
- The building
- The architecture
- The art
- Beautiful gardens
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About Royal Monastery of El Escorial
The Royal Monastery of El Escorial is about 45 km outside Madrid at the foot of the Sierra de Guadarrama (Guadarrama Mountains), and is well worth the trip, in our opinion, as it’s one of Spain's most iconic landmarks.
The monastery, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is known for its architectural grandeur and historical significance, was built during the reign of King Philip II in the late 16th century and serves as a symbol of Spain’s Golden Age.
What You Can See at El Escorial
- The Basilica: at the heart of the monastery is a magnificent dome which was designed by Juan de Herrera. The basilica is covered with amazing frescoes as well as an impressive collection of religious artifacts.
- Palace of the Austrians: Which were the quarters of the Habsburg's (including the private chambers of King Philip II) when they lived at the complex.
- The Bourbon Palace: This was a later addition added during the 18th century under King Charles III. Unlike King Philip II's quarters which were simple, the Bourbon Palace addition was considerably more luxurious and elegant, which showed the new royals taste!
- The Hall of Battles: A long hallway that is covered with frescos that depict Spanish military victories and other artwork.
- The Pantheon of Kings: The royal crypt contains the tombs of Spanish monarchs from the Habsburg and Bourbon dynasties. Its gold and marble decore is beautiful.
- The Library: A treasure trove of knowledge, the library boasts over 40,000 rare books and manuscripts. Its ceiling is also covered in frescoes which depict the pursuit of wisdom and science.
- The Gardens of the Friars (Jardines de los Frailes): The monastery also has beautifully manicured gardens which offer tranquillity and amazing views of the Sierra de Guadarrama mountains.
- The Art Collection: The art collection features works by renowned artists including Titian, El Greco, and Velázquez. The monastery's art collection is a must-see for art enthusiasts.
- The Cloisters and Courtyards: Wander through the monastery’s serene space which offers a harmonious blend of Renaissance and Herrerian architecture.
The Royal Monastery of El Escorial is a must-visit for history buffs, art lovers, and architecture enthusiasts. Whether you’re admiring its grandeur, delving into royal history, or enjoying the peaceful gardens, the amazing landmark promises a memorable experience.