Just an hour from the bustling centre of the capital is San Lorenzo de El Escorial, a monumental and natural enclave that holds within its walls centuries of history. Considered by many to be the eighth wonder of the world, the Monastery of El Escorial is a must-see for those who wish to explore one of the most important symbols of Spain's Golden Age. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this architectural complex encapsulates the spirituality, politics and culture of a unique era.

The origin of an architectural jewel

King Philip II ordered the construction of the Monastery of San Lorenzo de El Escorial in the mid-16th century as a royal pantheon for his parents, Charles I and Isabella of Portugal, and to commemorate their victory in the Battle of Saint Quentin, fought on 10 August 1557, the feast of Saint Lawrence. Work began in 1562 and was completed in 1584, although the church was not consecrated until 1595.

The design was the work of Juan Bautista de Toledo and later continued by Juan de Herrera, whose sober, geometric style gave rise to what is known today as Herreraesque architecture. The complex was conceived as a place of spiritual retreat, study and prayer, and therefore includes a basilica, palace, monastery, seminary and a monumental library.

An essential visit to the Monastery

The Monastery of El Escorial is surprising for its dimensions: 207 metres long by 161 metres wide, with 15 cloisters, 16 courtyards, more than 1,000 doors and more than 2,500 windows. Among its most notable spaces are:

The Basilica, with a Greek cross plan and frescoes by Luca Giordano.

The Royal Library, which houses thousands of manuscripts and ancient books, decorated with a vault painted by Pellegrino Tibaldi.

The Pantheons, especially that of the Kings, with marble and jasper that evoke the grandeur of the Habsburgs.

The King's House, austere and simple, where Philip II spent his last days.

The Hall of Battles, with frescoes celebrating the military victories of the Spanish monarchy.

The palaces of the Habsburgs and the Bourbons, where you can appreciate both the sobriety of the Habsburgs and the opulence of the Bourbons.

Also worth a visit are the Museum of Painting, the Museum of Architecture, the Patio de los Reyes and the Chapter Houses.

Walks and sights in the surrounding area

Once the visit is over, we recommend a stroll through La Herrería, an extensive forest that inspired the monarch to build his monumental project here. Don't miss the Silla de Felipe II, a viewpoint carved into the rock from where the king is said to have supervised the work on the monastery. The views of the complex from this point are unbeatable.

What to see in the municipality of El Escorial

Although they are often confused, El Escorial and San Lorenzo de El Escorial are distinct areas of the same municipality. The monastery is located in San Lorenzo, while El Escorial is home to several points of interest:

La Casita del Príncipe, a neoclassical pleasure villa by Juan de Villanueva.

The Church of San Bernabé, with a Herrerian style and an altarpiece presided over by a canvas by Juan Gómez.

The Monastery of Prestado, provisional residence of Felipe II during the construction of the complex.

The Casa Miñana, an example of 19th century neo-Mudéjar town planning.

La Fresneda or La Granjilla, an old recreational estate with ponds, orchards and woods.

The Bosque de La Herrería, which surrounds the monumental complex, is a protected area (ZEPA) within the Natura 2000 Network, ideal for quiet walks in the heart of nature.

Where to eat in San Lorenzo de El Escorial

The surroundings of El Escorial also stand out for its gastronomy. Some of the most outstanding restaurants are:

Michelin-starred Montia, specialising in seasonal cuisine.

Charolés, famous for its cocido madrileño stew in a rustic and traditional setting.

Paco Pastel, renowned for its pastries and traditional daily menu.

Cava Alta, which offers Spanish cuisine with a creative twist.

Vesta Taberna, with a menu based on local products and intense flavours, such as hake confit or entrecote from Ávila.

A perfect getaway from Gran Hotel Inglés

If you are staying at Gran Hotel Inglés, one of the most emblematic hotels in the capital, visiting El Escorial is an ideal plan for a cultural and natural day trip. From this historic hotel in the centre of Madrid, you can comfortably organise your visit thanks to its excellent location and its personalised concierge service.

After a day exploring this impressive legacy of the Spanish Renaissance, there is nothing better than returning to the comfort of this luxury hotel in Madrid, enjoying its spa, its exquisite gastronomy or relaxing in one of its impressive rooms. A perfect balance between history, nature and sophistication, make your reservation and live Madrid with the most complete experience!