Spain: El Escorial Monastery

El Escorial is an immensely massive historic complex in San Lorenzo de El Escorial about 45km northwest of Madrid. Built in the late 16th century under King Philip II, it serves as a monastery, basilica, royal palace, pantheon, library, museum, and hospital – all in one! The complex was constructed between 1563-84 to commemorate Spain’s victory at the Battle of St. Quentin (where the Spanish defeated the French) and to show off Philip II’s vision of a unified Spain, blending political, religious, and cultural functions. From the outside, El Escorial appears more like a fortress than a monastery. Altogether, the massive complex has 15 courtyards, over 2000 windows, more than 1000 doors, 86 staircases, 88 fountains, and 1600 paintings. The Basilica of San Lorenzo el Real, at its heart, contains the Royal Pantheon, where most Spanish monarchs since Charles V are buried. The library hosts over 40,000 volumes, including rare manuscripts. El Escorial is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.