Royal Monastery of Saint Mary of El Paular

The Royal Monastery of Saint Mary of El Paular, nestled within the scenic Guadarrama mountain range near Madrid, Spain, is a historic Carthusian, later Benedictine, monastery founded in the 14th century. It stands as a profound symbol of Spain's religious and royal heritage, representing centuries of devotion and architectural evolution in a tranquil natural setting. Situated in the breathtaking Guadarrama region, El Paular serves as a perfect starting point to explore the natural beauty of the mountains and is conveniently located near charming towns like Rascafría and numerous hiking trails, making it a wonderful addition to a regional itinerary focused on culture and nature.