Monte de El Pardo, Natural forest near Madrid, Spain
Monte de El Pardo is a large forest area with holm oaks, cork oaks, and dense understory vegetation north of Madrid. The landscape spans an extensive territory surrounded by fencing, with historic buildings integrated throughout the grounds.
The forest served as a royal hunting ground starting in the 14th century, documented in records from that era. Its status as a royal domain shaped how the land was managed and protected throughout subsequent periods.
The palace within the grounds displays a notable collection of tapestries created by Goya, while other historic structures dot the landscape. These buildings reflect centuries of how Spanish nobility connected their residences with the surrounding natural environment.
The area is largely enclosed to protect the natural environment and wildlife, with access carefully restricted. Check current access rules before visiting, as some sections may have limited or guided-only entry.
The forest is home to more than 200 vertebrate species and over 100 different plant types within a connected ecosystem. This biological diversity is notable because this natural area exists right next to a major European capital.
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