Start the excursion at the Royal Library, the ultimate example of the high cultural value of the complex as the centre of spirituality and learning in Spain for centuries. Exquisite ceiling frescoes depict the seven liberal arts with a burst of colour. Solid wooden shelves house a priceless collection of manuscripts and rare books. The elaborate globe model in the centre of the library depicts Christian cosmology, insisting that the solar system revolves around the Earth.
Next, move downstairs and take a look around the King’s courtyard. The central yard of the complex is named after the statues of Old Testament kings on the facade of the dominating Basilica.
The Basilica, the central building of the complex, is a clear example of Spanish Renaissance architecture, perfectly coordinated with the decoration to create a mind-blowing unified artistic effect. The statues of Saint Lawrence and the kings on the grand symmetrical façade prepare the way for a magnificent display of saints and kings inside, besides other ornate decorations such as marble walls, carved woodwork, and stained glass windows.
On the next step, stop by the Chapter Rooms, where the monks carried out the readings of the Rules and discussed administrative issues. These spaces of great importance within the monastic structure set themselves apart from the rest of the complex with their simplistic architecture and sober decoration. They also house religious works of art, including The Robe of Joseph, a work by Velázquez.
Then, take the stairs down to the underground Royal Burial Chambers, the final resting place for the Spanish monarchs. The mausoleum consists of two parts: the gilded Pathogen of Kings, housing relics of kings and king’s mothers, and the Pantheon of the Infantes in white marble, containing tombs of kings’ children and consorts.
After that, visit the Palace Of Prince Philip II, where King Phillip II and some other royal members lived. His residence is located right next to the basilica for one good reason: The religious king could watch mass from his room when he was too weak to officially attend.
Finally, treat yourself to the ultimate experience of art in Bourbons Palace, composed of the Hall Of Battles covered in exquisite frescoes depicting famous battles, the Art Gallery housing the finest European art collection of the Spanish royal, and the Architecture Museum displaying the antique tools and building materials used to build the complex.
