About The Royal Site of San Lorenzo de El Escorial

The Royal Site of San Lorenzo de El Escorial, at the foot of Mount Abantos, is a multipurpose site once used as a boarding school, cathedral, palace, and even a hospital. It was predominantly designed as a symbol to show the world the dominance of Christianity in Spain. The historical residence of the King of Spain the El Escorial is made up of two architecturally and culturally brilliant complexes. 

Taking over 20 years to build, the royal site can be described as an architectural masterpiece, from the grand library to the apartments, the tapestry, furniture, and sculptures are delicate and resonate the power of the Spanish Monarchy. With three doors at the entrance, one opening each at a courtyard, school and monastery, each of which hold their own historic relevance. The site of San Lorenzo was also a burial ground for the royal family and tours take visitors to the tombs which have been maintained by the Spanish government.

Must See

  • Gardens outside the Royal Site
  • Royal Pantheon
  • The interior decor of the individual rooms
  • Royal apartments
  • Funeral urns of the Royal members
  • The Library within the Monastery, not only is its collection enviable, but it holds several first edition books on religion and early documents of historical importance

How to reach

 By Bus:

It takes 52 minutes plus a 7 minute walk

By Train:

It takes 1 hour and 37 minutes and costs 7.80 to 10.20 Euros

By Taxi:

It takes 40 minutes and costs between 6 to 9 Euros

By Drive:

40 minutes and costs  to  Euros

By Ride share:

It takes 1 hour 40 minutes and costs 2.41 Euros


Tips

  • Cameras are prohibited in certain locations in the palace
  • Children must be accompanied at all times
  • Wheelchair accessible
  • No pets are allowed
  • Audio tours cost as much as the tour guides and is fixed at 4 Euros
  • Reduced mobility access is available
  • Free roaming is not allowed

Visit Time

April to September: 

Sunday:         10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Monday:         10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Tuesday:        10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Wednesday:   10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Thursday:       10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Friday:            10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Saturday:        10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.


October to March:

 Sunday:         10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Monday:          10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Tuesday:         10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Wednesday:    10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Thursday:        10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Friday:             10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Saturday:         10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

 

Time Icon

Waiting Time

15 to 30 minutes

 

Entrance Fee Icon

Entrance Fee

Yes

Per Person: 10 Euros

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Time you can spend Icon

Time you can spend

1 to 2 hours

 

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Weather

Overcast Clouds 9.85°C

 

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