valle de los caidos (valley of the fallen)
This is the world's largest free-standing Christian cross. Francoâ²s tomb and memorial to Catholics both in Franco's side and opposite killed in the Civil War. Construction was ordered by Franco and erected on rocks through the labor of many Republican prisoners of war.
It is located quite far from the monastery.
monastery of san lorenzo de el escorial
Originally commissioned as mausoleum for his father Charles V, when building completed in 1584 the grounds included a basilica-church, monastery, royal household and library. The pantheon contains the remains of Phillip II and those of his parents, Charles V and the Empress Isabel of Portugal. (http://www.patrimonionaci...)
Some highlights not to miss in El Escorial:
The Basilica contains two great cenotaphs on either side of the high altar: to the right, that of the founder, King Philip II; on the left that of the Emperor Charles V. The sculptor Pompeyo Leoni was responsible for the gilt bronze statues in the two royal groups.
The Pantheon of Kings is directly underneath the altar in the Basilica and is worth the extra money for the full priced ticket.
The magnificent Gallery of Battles was recently restored and shows scenes commemorating battles from Phillips military campaigns.
The Chapter Houses with the collection of paintings from Tintoretto, El Greco, Titian and others.
El Grecos painting of "The Martyrdom of St. Maurice".
The Library and its vaulted ceiling decorated with frescoes.