Places to visit in Madrid

Walking through Alcalá de Henares is a journey through the living history of the Spanish language. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage City in 1998, this historic destination is renowned as the birthplace of Miguel de Cervantes and home to one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Europe.

Its medieval layout, centered around the majestic Plaza de Cervantes, blends seamlessly with the Renaissance spirit of the San Ildefonso College, creating a unique setting where knowledge, architecture, and literature can be felt throughout every corner of the historic center.

Art, nature, history, heritage and gastronomy: In San Lorenzo de El Escorial you can choose from a wide range of enjoyable plans. Considered as the eighth wonder of the world in the 18th century, the Monastery of El Escorial represents a unique cultural asset being an example of the human creative spirit. The Monastery and Site of San Lorenzo de El Escorial, recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site since 1984, offers an attractive tourist attraction for visitors all year round.

Located in the heart of the Sierra de Guadarrama mountain range, just 50 kilometres from Madrid, this town offers visitors an exclusive architectonic heritage, a magnificent natural environment, and a rich cultural offer. In San Lorenzo de El Escorial there is a lot to see and do during 365 days a year: special guided tours, urban and nature routes, exhibitions, concerts, summer courses and much more.... Additionally, there is a wide and diverse range of restaurants and bar where you can taste traditional Madrilenian and Castilian cuisine.

The first historical references to these territories date back to the 12th century when settlers from Segovia, pushed by the Reconquest and the need for land, established themselves on the southern slopes of the Sierra del Guadarrama mountain range.

In 1561, at the same time as the capital of the Spanish monarchy was moved to Madrid, Philip II purchased the lands of La Herrería, La Fresneda, El Campillo, Monasterio and El Escorial, among others, on which he built the Monastery, and whose foundation he entrusted to the Hieronymite monks. In the surrounding area, buildings were built to house trades and provide accommodation for the workers involved in the great work. The Royal Monastery of San Lorenzo de El Escorial is not only considered an architectural jewel, but it is also surrounded by fantasy, mystery and a popular imagination made of legends and stories imprinting on its granite walls.

The best known legend is the medieval one that tells that a gateway to hell was located on the site of the monastery. A nearby mine with deep, dark galleries was the origin of this local legend. Looking at the monastery from above, it is shaped like a grill. A legend says that this shape pays homage to the saint, San Lorenzo, who was burnt to death on a grill. Much similarity has also been found with the layout of the Temple of Solomon. Perhaps the grandeur of this biblical temple inspired Philip II to erect the Monastery of El Escorial.

Discover Aranjuez, a city filled with history and charm. Explore its palaces, gardens, and its rich cultural and gastronomic legacy.