La Granja de San Ildefonso

The Royal Palace of La Granja de San Ildefonso, often referred to as the 'Versailles of Spain,' was commissioned in the early 18th century by King Philip V. The palace stands out with its elegant Baroque facade and magnificent interiors adorned with Flemish tapestries and elaborate ceiling paintings. Of particular note is the Royal Chapel, containing the tomb of Philip V and his consort Elisabeth Farnese. The true highlight, however, is the gardens, spanning 600 hectares. They house 26 monumental fountains depicting classical myths. The historic hydraulic system is unique, still operating entirely by gravity today. The fountains are only fully activated at specific times and on holidays like May 30 or August 25, providing an unforgettable spectacle. The gardens also provide shade through centuries-old cedars and giant sequoia trees. In addition to the palace, the town hosts the 'Real Fábrica de Cristales,' a historic 18th-century glass factory where visitors can admire the traditional art of glassblowing. The town is located just 11 kilometers from Segovia and is easily accessible by bus or car. The cooler temperatures at this altitude once made it the excellent summer residence for the Spanish court. A visit is particularly recommended in spring when the flowers bloom, or in mid-summer to escape the Madrid heat. Local gastronomy is famous for 'Judiones de La Granja,' large white beans typically served with chorizo and bacon.

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History & landmarks

Aranjuez

The royal summer residence on the Tagus river, a UNESCO World Heritage site with magnificent gardens and palaces.

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