El Escorial: Discover the Ghosts and Legends of the Habsburgs that Endure
The shadows of the past glide through the halls of the monumental El Escorial, a mausoleum of the grandeur of the Habsburgs and a silent witness to their intrigues, tragedies, and legends. While its grand stones tell tales of glory and power, they also whisper secrets of ghosts that, according to chroniclers of the time, still haunt this royal palace. Since its construction in the mid-16th century, El Escorial has been a stage for events that shaped the history of Spain and Europe. In this article, we will explore the legends that have endured over time, revealing the duality of grandeur and decay that characterizes the House of Habsburg.
El Escorial: A Monument of Power and Grandeur
The construction of El Escorial was initiated in 1563 by King Philip II, not only as a palace but as a symbol of the power of the Spanish monarchy. This monumental monastery, designed by architect Juan Bautista de Toledo, was erected in San Lorenzo de El Escorial, near Madrid, and was completed in 1584. The structure not only houses a royal palace but also a monastery and an impressive library, making it a spiritual and cultural center.
The magnificence of El Escorial is undeniable, and its construction reflected the absolute power wielded by the Habsburgs in Europe. However, this grandeur was overshadowed by the personal tragedies that affected the royal family. Philip II, for instance, faced the deaths of several children and his wife, María Manuela of Portugal, who passed away in 1545. It is said that Philip II's sorrow is reflected in the walls of El Escorial, where the echoes of the past resonate in the form of haunting legends.