A little more than an hour from Madrid, this Royal Site is considered the “Little Spanish Versailles”. Philip V, the first Bourbon king, wanted to retire in a place that reminded him of the France where he grew up, so he decided to build a paradise at the foot of the Sierra de Guadarrama: we are talking about La Granja de San Ildefonso.
Geometric gardens, monumental fountains, baroque style in every corner of the palace… its elegant and sophisticated air make La Granja a destination with an unmistakable Parisian flavor , perfect for a day trip.
La Granja, the “Little Versailles”.
Those who have already visited probably remember the mythological statues, the huge chestnut trees and the regal architecture of the entire monumental complex. A style that takes us directly to 18th century Europe. But the question is inevitable: why compare La Granja with Versailles?
In addition to its elegance and baroque style, La Granja was specifically conceived to emulate the grandeur of French palaces. Only with one difference: in this case, the idea was for the palace to be in a much more intimate mountain setting.
How has France influenced La Granja?
Or rather, who did France influence to make La Granja what it is today? The answer lies in three key names: Philippe V, René Carlier and René Frémin. The first, grandson of Louis XIV (the Sun King) and first Bourbon king, grew up in Versailles, so when he arrived in Spain his desire was to retire in a place that reminded him of his childhood home.
In the case of René Carlier (architect) and Tené Frémin (sculptor), both were the French masters who worked on the design of the gardens and fountains, imprinting their aesthetics. And if we add to this the fact that it is a Royal retreat, the nickname of “Little Versailles” makes even more sense, since it combines the majesty of French art with the natural beauty of the Segovian mountains.
What to see in La Granja
The quickest answer (and the must-see) is the Royal Palace. Its façade and halls such as the Sala de Mármoles or the Tapestry Museum are the perfect starting point to understand life at the 18th century Court.
After the visit, a stroll through the Royal Gardens is almost a must. With an extension of 146 hectares, the most famous stops are those made at the Fountain of Fame and the Horse Race. If you’re lucky and go in the firing season, watching the water games is a spectacle that has nothing to envy to any other in Europe.
If you have more time, the Royal Glass Factory is also worth a visit. Now a museum, this huge 18th century industrial building was used to manufacture the chandeliers and luxury glassware that adorned the palaces of half of Europe.
Last (but definitely not least), eating the traditional judiones de La Granja in the village after walking through its cobblestone streets is a pleasure that everyone should try at least once in a lifetime.
Other points of interest near La Granja
If you are passing through the area for a longer time, Segovia is only 15 minutes away from La Granja de San Ildefonso and has many worthwhile stops. The Palacio Episcopal or El Alcázar de Segovia (said to have inspired Snow White’s castle) are examples.
But if you are looking for a more musical stop, there are specific places in the city where the famous Candlelight concerts are held, featuring live classical music by candlelight.