Aranjuez: Historical palaces and gardens near Madrid

Aranjuez, located less than an hour from Madrid, offers a historical cultural landscape recognized by UNESCO. The site is characterized by its Royal Palace, extensive gardens, and the Tagus River.

The Royal Palace, originally promoted by Philip II in the 16th century and later expanded by the Bourbons, features notable interiors such as the Hall of Mirrors, the Gala Dining Room, and the Porcelain Cabinet. The Porcelain Cabinet is specifically noted for its walls and ceilings covered in pieces from the Royal Buen Retiro Factory.

Visitors can access the area via the Cercanías train from Madrid or by car via the A-4 highway. The town is designed as an integrated cultural landscape that includes historical orchards and river walks.