This construction promoted by Philip II, which lasted during 21 years, between 1563 and 1584, it is a huge complex that includes a royal palace, a pantheon, a basilica and a monastery. Just 50 kilometers from Madrid, it is a place full of history, which still impresses us today with its greatness.
It was Philip II who ordered build the Monastery to guarantee the memory of his family, found a dynastic pantheon and compensate for the destruction of a church dedicated to Saint Lawrence during the battle of Saint Quentin, in France.
On April 23, 1563, the first stone was laid under the leadership of Juan Bautista de Toledo. When he died, in 1567, Juan de Herrera took charge of the work, imprinting the particular architectural seal of the so-called ""Herrerian"" style, characterized by the prominence of the line against any abuse. of decorative elements that distracted the contemplation of the building. It was also built to house the Royal Pantheon and here Spanish monarchs from the houses of Austria and Bourbon are buried. The princes, infants and queens who died without royal descendants are those who rest in the Pantheon of Infants.
Documents concerning the execution works of the Monastery are preserved, in which the participation of great masters from all over Europe is confirmed. Likewise, the abundant manuscripts (Arabic, Greek and Latin) in its Library and the collection of paintings in the Chapter Houses stand out. El Greco, Ribera, Tiziano, Velázquez and El Bosco are some of the brands that are featured here. they can be contemplated. Titian, Veronés, Zurbarán and Tintoretto wait at the Museum of Painting.
Winter (October-March) Tuesday to Sunday: 10:00 hrs – 18:00 hrs
Summer (April-September) Tuesday to Sunday: 10:00 hrs – 20:00 hrs