Just over a month ago, National Heritage announced the return of its monumental fountain show at La Granja de San Ildefonso. Barely an hour separates the capital from this spot at the foot of the Sierra de Guadarrama, which now also features the opening to the public from May through October of two of its lesser-known spots: theRoyal Apothecary Garden and the historic fish farm.
The Royal Apothecary Garden, Medicinal Plants for the Royal Household
Few people know that the origins of the Spanish Royal Family’s healthcare system date back to 1594, during the reign of Philip II. The guided tour of the Royal Apothecary Garden recounts this history, which is closely linked to the cultivation of aromatic and medicinal plants at La Granja.
During the tour, visitors can discover how plants were identified and used for therapeutic purposes between the 16th and 19th centuries, as well as the containers that have been part of the Royal Apothecary throughout history. Among them are vases decorated with the coats of arms of Philip V and Isabella of Farnese, Talavera ceramic jars, and delicate opaline and blown-glass goblets from the Royal Glass Factory of La Granja.
Spain’s First Fish Farm
For its part, this tour invites visitors to explore the first fish farm built in Spain, a pioneering project launched in 1867 on the initiative of the scientist Mariano de la Paza Graells and financed by King Consort Francisco de Asís.
The cold, clear, and fast-flowing waters of the Royal Site provided the perfect conditions for raising the trout that would restock the rivers of what is now the Sierra de Guadarrama National Park. Thanks to meticulous research and restoration work, the facility today looks exactly as it did during its heyday.
Plan your visit: tickets, hours, and more information
Both activities will begin on May 8 and run through the fall, as follows:
Visit to the Royal Apothecary Garden
- Date: every Wednesday (through October 14)
- Hours: 11 a.m.
- Duration: 90 minutes
- Capacity: up to 20 people
- Tickets: €4 – get yours here.
Visit to the Fish Farm
- Date: alternate Fridays (through September 25)
- Time: 6:00 p.m.
- Duration: 60 minutes
- Capacity: up to 30 people
- Tickets: €4 – get yours here.
