A royal residence.

Work on this palace, along with the adjoining monuments, was begun by Philip II and completed by Charles III of Spain, and as a result it displays a wide variety of styles.

The palace's most distinctive feature is the predominance of white and red on its façade. It was originally a recreational estate, and only assumed its monumental appearance during the reign of Philip II. However, the building we see today is the result of modifications made by Charles III, who added a large parade ground. The palace is in the style of Herrera. Special mention should be made of the façade, adorned by statues of the three kings who played a part in its construction. Particularly worth noting for their beauty and master craftsmanship are the Rococo staircase and balustrade by Bonavía; and the Porcelain Room, whose walls are lined with porcelain.