Aranjuez
Aranjuez, an Earthly Paradise
Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2001, Aranjuez is a place where nature and history blend together in a unique way. Its gardens, designed with exquisite aesthetic taste, are true botanical museums that invite you to stroll and relax. The Royal Palace, a jewel of 18th-century architecture, and other historic buildings such as the Casa del Labrador, form a monumental ensemble of great beauty. The abundance of water, thanks to the Tajo and Jarama rivers, has allowed for the development of an irrigation system that has shaped the landscape and favored agriculture.
A Historical Legacy
Since the 15th century, Aranjuez has been a place of recreation for Spanish royalty. The kings of the House of Austria and Bourbon left their mark on this town, beautifying it with palaces, gardens, and works of art. During the 18th and 19th centuries, Aranjuez experienced its golden age as the summer residence of the court. Today, this historical legacy can be appreciated in every corner of the city. In addition to its cultural heritage, Aranjuez offers high-quality gastronomy, based on fresh produce from the garden and prepared with traditional recipes in exquisite local restaurants, one of which boasts a Michelin star.
What to see in Aranjuez
Just 50 kilometers from the capital, a getaway to Aranjuez is always a great idea. Don't miss its historic center, declared a Historic-Artistic Site, with the Royal Palace as its centerpiece and other gems such as the Royal Barges Museum, the Casa del Labrador, and the Bullring, built in 1796 by order of Charles IV and housing the Bullfighting Museum. A stroll through the Prince's Gardens, the Island Gardens, and the Parterre will allow you to evoke the melodies that Master Rodrigo dedicated to them in his famous Concerto of Aranjuez. Nature lovers will especially enjoy the surroundings of the Tajo River, with the groves and historic orchards that surround the municipality and once filled the pantries of the Court.
Throughout the year, Aranjuez breathes an atmosphere of culture and high-interest activities, with internationally renowned events such as the Motín festivities, and a large number of musical events such as the Early Music Festival, as well as those held at the Royal Carlos III Theater or the Isabel de Farnesio Cultural Center. In spring and autumn, it is pleasant to arrive by the Strawberry Train, which departs from the old Delicias station. Travel to Aranjuez on a historic train with wooden carriages and period-dressed staff offering traditional products.
Photo: Royal Gardens
Photo: Royal Palace of Aranjuez
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Cultural and natural wealth on the Tagus River banks
Royal Palace of Aranjuez
Discover the magic of the Royal Palace of Aranjuez, an architectural gem on the banks of the Tagus River
On the left bank of the Tagus River stands the Royal Palace of Aranjuez, a former summer residence of Spanish royalty that will transport you to an era of splendor and elegance.
Built in the 16th century under the reign of Philip II and transformed in the 18th century under the Bourbons, the palace has witnessed the history and power of the Spanish monarchy.
Admire its impressive red brick and white stone façade, explore its rooms decorated with period furniture and artwork, and wander through its magnificent gardens designed by the greatest landscape architects of the time.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Palace of Aranjuez is a must-visit for history and culture lovers.
Aranjuez gardens
Considered the most beautiful gardens of that time, they served as inspiration to artists such as the composer Joaquín Rodrigo or the painter Santiago Rusiñol.
There are several historic gardens surrounding the Royal Palace of Aranjuez, each one representing a different type of style according to the time and taste of the monarch who commissioned its creation.
Today you can visit the Prince's Garden (between the Puerta de Villanueva and Calle Isabel II), the Queen's and King's Garden (the latter from the Parterre), the Isla, Isabel II and Parterre gardens.
Royal House of Labrador
Royal Barge Museum
The Royal Barge Museu in Aranjuez is a unique space that allows visitors to discover the history of river navigation at the Spanish court. The museum houses a collection of forty pieces, including faluas and other vessels, dating from the 17th to the 19th centuries.
The falúas or riverboats were used by monarchs and nobility to navigate the river areas of the Royal Sites of Aranjuez. These riverboats were made of wood and decorated with luxurious materials such as gold, silver and ivory.
The museum has a permanent exhibition that traces the history of the royal barges, from their origin in the 17th century to their use in the 19th century. The exhibition includes pieces of great historical and artistic value, such as the falua of Charles IV, created in Cartagena and decorated by Salvador Maella, and the very old gondola of Philip V, which was once used by the king to boat ride the Buen Retiro pond.
The museum also offers a range of cultural activities, such as guided tours, children's workshops and temporary exhibitions.
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Teatro Real Carlos III
Built in the 18th century by commission of King Charles III, this theatre is one of the architectural jewels of the Spanish Baroque with a fascinating history. The theatre was set up in 1768 by the architect Jaime Marquet and opened on 14 May 1769. At the beginning, it was used as a place to perform operas, comedies and dramas.
In the 20th century, the theatre was taken over by private owners and changed its name to Gran Teatro Maestro Guerrero. During this period, the theatre showed performances and latter it was even used as a cinema.
In 1989, the theatre closed its doors until, after several attempts, the Town Council of Aranjuez and the Region of Madrid were able to reopen this marvellous theatre in 2014, with a careful project proposed by the architect Mariano Bayón.
The programme of the Teatro Real Carlos III is very diverse and offers the best classical music, opera and dance performances, as well as a very up-to-date programme of theatre, musicals, monologues and all kinds of stage events.
If you are looking for a unique place to enjoy a magnificent show, the Teatro Real Carlos III in Aranjuez is a perfect choice. This place will transport you back in time that will make you experience unforgettable moments.
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