Royal Crypt of the Royal Monastery of San Lorenzo de El Escorial

The Royal Crypt is an underground burial chamber beneath the monastery basilica that holds the remains of Spanish monarchs. The room has an octagonal shape with vaulted ceilings and gilded bronze decorations that stand out against the dark stone walls.

Philip II ordered construction to begin in the 1560s, but the final design took shape under Philip IV several decades later. Italian architect Giovanni Battista Crescenzi and Spaniard Juan Gómez de Mora completed the work in 1654.

Monarchs rest in dark grey marble sarcophagi arranged in two rows along the circular walls. Kings lie on one side and queens on the opposite, creating a symmetrical order that remains visible today.

Access is through a long marble staircase that descends into the depths, and the climb down requires steady footing on smooth steps. In winter the temperature inside remains low, and the air feels cool and damp due to the stone construction.

Two empty sarcophagi stand ready for former King Juan Carlos I and Queen Sofia, marking the last rulers designated for burial in this space. After them the crypt will close, as all available places will be filled.

Location: San Lorenzo de El Escorial

Architects: Giovanni Battista Crescenzi, Juan Gómez de Mora

Part of: Royal Monastery of San Lorenzo de El Escorial

GPS coordinates: 40.58891,-4.14684

Latest update: January 12, 2026 12:18