El Escorial Guide
El Escorial: A Royal Monastery, Palace, and Mausoleum Guide
El Escorial is a vast complex located in San Lorenzo de El Escorial, near Madrid, Spain. It's more than just a building; it's a royal monastery, palace, library, museum, university, school and mausoleum, all rolled into one imposing structure. Built in the late 16th century, it stands as a powerful symbol of Spanish power and the devout Catholicism of King Philip II. Prepare to be awestruck by its sheer scale and the wealth of art and history contained within its walls. The history of El Escorial is deeply intertwined with King Philip II. He commissioned its construction to commemorate the Spanish victory at the Battle of St. Quentin in 1557 and to serve as a royal pantheon. The design, largely conceived by Juan Bautista de Toledo and later Juan de Herrera, reflects a somber and austere style, a departure from the more flamboyant Renaissance architecture prevalent at the time. The complex took over 20 years to build and became a model for other royal and religious buildings throughout Europe. A visit to El Escorial offers a multitude of experiences. Explore the opulent Royal Palace, wander through the serene cloisters of the monastery, and descend into the crypt to see the tombs of Spanish monarchs. The Basilica, with its soaring dome and impressive artwork, is a highlight. Art lovers will appreciate the museum's collection, which includes works by El Greco, Titian, and Hieronymus Bosch. Don't miss the Royal Library, home to a vast collection of manuscripts and rare books. The surrounding gardens provide a peaceful escape and offer stunning views of the Guadarrama mountains. While in San Lorenzo de El Escorial, be sure to try local specialties like Cocido Madrileño (a hearty chickpea stew) or roast lamb.
Transportation
**By Train:** The Cercanías Madrid commuter train (lines C-3a and C-8) runs from Madrid's Chamartín station to El Escorial. The journey takes approximately one hour. From the El Escorial train station, you can take a local bus or taxi to the monastery, which is about a 15-20 minute ride. Alternatively, it's a pleasant (but uphill) walk of about 30-40 minutes. **By Bus:** Several bus companies operate routes from Madrid to San Lorenzo de El Escorial. Buses depart from Moncloa station in Madrid.
Opening Hours
October to March: 10:00 to 18:00. April to September: 10:00 to 20:00. Closed on Mondays.
Ticket Price
Basic ticket: 12 Euros