Madrid History

Madrid was in the year 2006 the fourth most visited city in Europe and the first in Spain hosting more than 3.9 million tourists during that year. It is also headquarters of the World Tourism Organization and the International tourism Fair.

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San Lorenzo de El Escorial

The monumental complex of San Lorenzo del Escorial is located next to Mount Abantos, in the Sierra de Guadarrama. It was built by King Felipe II to commemorate the victory of St. Quentin (August 1557) over the troops of Henry II, King of France. The construction lasted 21 years and was used as royal mausoleum, a tradition that has continued throughout the history of the Spanish monarchy. Felipe II commissioned the design of the Escorial Juan Bautista de Toledo, a Spanish architect trained in Italy as an assistant to Michelangelo in the construction of the basilica of St. Peter (Rome).

The schedule for visits to the Basilica is open Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 to 17:00 hours. In spring and summer hours are extended until 18:00.

Alcala de Henares

Where Cervantes was born, was an important university in the 16 and 17th centuries. Alcala de Henares was declared a World Heritage City by the UNESCO in 1998. Thanks to the historic place and the rector of the university, this city is one of nine cities in Spain which UNESCO has classified as unique. Is famous for its university, built thanks to Cardinal Cisneros on April 13, 1499.

Aranjuez

Aranjuez is famous for its Royal Palace and Gardens

If you want to visit these places, we recommend you to book with us your car hire Madrid airport.