El Escorial

travel  wonder in Spain

Why
El Escorial
is special

The massive El Escorial countryside building contains - under one roof - a striking royal pantheon, palace, monastery, basilica, library, school, and art collection.

El Escorial

tips & insights

Functions

King Philip II built El Escorial (1557-84) for many purposes, including as a final resting place for his royal parents, himself, and his kings-to-be descendants.

Top Five El Escorial must-sees

Royal Crypt
All but three of the kings that ruled Spain over the past five centuries are interned in this ornately stunning mausoleum.

Basilica
Its high altar and backdrop is decorated with gold and precious artwork.

Library
Rare historic books and manuscripts fill this richly decorated room.

Art Galleries
You see works by master artists including Titian, Velasquez and El Greco.

Phillip II Chambers
The relative simplicity of King Philip's living quarters in Escorial reflect the lifestyle of this powerful, deeply religious king.

There is also an interesting monastery,
but it is not open to the public because it is operational.

Exterior vs. interior

The austerity of the El Escorial exterior granite structure (see photo) gives scant hint of the resplendent rooms that lie inside.

Name

The El Escorial complex was named
for the nearby town of Escorial and is pronounced:

Ehl Es-kohr'-ee-uhl

Nearest major city

You can visit El Escorial as a day trip from Madrid. It's only 40 kilometers (25 miles) away.

View my other gold,

silver & bronze medal

winners in Spain

My Spanish

phrase guide

for travelers

What every visitor should know.

Spanish cuisine

I hope your Spain travel dreams come true - and that 

my El Escorial page helps you enjoy your vacation, tour or trip

©2008 HQP / Hillman Quality Publications