Last Wkend in El Escorial

San Lorenzo del Escorial
is a gorgeous lil city outside of Madrid
just an hour drive away
I was amazed by how every single city in Spain
just has sth interesting to offer!

It's famous for its huge Monastery
and General Franco's burial ground.
check out the grand monastery...

me jumping in joy
look at the space man....

the interior of the Cathedral

city centre
streets lined with alfresco dining..

WOO
Franco's burial ground.
Franco used to be the dictator of Spain
when he ruled Spain, development was hindered
innocents were slaughtered,
there was no freedom, liberty, nobody had any say.
He died only in the 70's
n that was when Spain got its liberty
broke free from his dictatorship
n started threading the path of development.

He built his own burial ground
Valle de los caidos
(Valley of the fallen)
it's huge, set in the midst of nature
i felt like i could hear my echo if i shouted

I imagine it must be an emotional trip
for the Spanish, esp the elderlys
if they had witnessed Franco's reign..
the Spanish resent him, except the Fascists.
Alberto didnt even wanna take pics there