You will feel as though you've traveled back in time when you visit the incredible El Escorial monastery and the Valley of the Fallen. Tour a piece of Spain's history on this informative and exciting journey you'll never forget. See the monastery and the monument at the Valley of the Fallen on this half-day guided tour led by an English-speaking expert. Experience a piece of the Spanish world and learn about the vast history behind both structures.

The Royal Seat of San Lorenzo de El Escorial, otherwise known as El Escorial, is a huge structure that includes a monastery, palace, school, museum, and more. Construction began on 1563, and was completed in about 21 years. The site is fascinating, and more than 500,000 visitors tour the Escorial every year; you want to be one of them! Your guided tour of El Escorial will take you through the complex, where you'll see the Pantheon of Kings and the basilica. The Pantheon of Kings, with its twenty-six sepulchers with the remains of kings and queens, will have you in awe. Home to the remains of most of the Spanish kings, El Escorial's Pantheon of Kings is both stunning and sobering. The basilica, constructed by the architect who also designed the St. Peter's in Rome, will be an especially memorable part of your tour. The central piece of El Escorial, the basilica is shaped like a Latin cross. Its Corinthian columns, impressive dome, and Baroque design will delight and inspire you as your guide talks you through the stories of the palace.

Next stop on your tour is the Valley of the Fallen, a huge basilica constructed into the side of a mountain. This incredible site is just six miles from El Escorial and your tour will be topped off with a visit here. Built by General Franco to commemorate the fallen soldiers of the Spanish Civil War, this structure looks out onto a beautiful valley. Topped with a giant cross, the Valley of the Fallen was Franco's "act of atonement,"� but still remains controversial, as much of the site was built by his political prisoners.

Enjoy and afternoon touring El Escorial and the Valley of the Fallen, and see two of Spain's most stunning historical spots. See both fascinating pieces of Spain's past, and experience Spanish history at its best.