Since Philip II and during the Royal Days in San Lorenzo de El Escorial, the kings dedicated much of their time to hunting in the Royal Forests.

These were surrounded by various dry stone walls, built during the era of Philip II, to, among other things, keep and preserve the game found within them for the enjoyment of the monarch.

These walls form a large Royal Enclosure that was completely closed by Charles IV. Currently, it can be seen in various locations within our municipality. (*)

Charles III, like almost all Spanish monarchs, had a great passion for hunting. Largely because he feared falling into the madness that had affected his father Philip V and his brother Ferdinand VI. Long walks, physical exercise and the sun helped the monarch escape his ghosts.

This affinity of Charles III was illustrated by Francisco de Goya in one of his paintings in which, against a landscape that could be El Escorial or El Pardo, he appears with his arquebus and one of his dogs.

The Royal Site is looking for 21st-century hunters. Alone, as a couple, with family, with friends, in organised groups… in short, however you wish.

Grab your camera or mobile phone and head to the Finca del Romeral via the Camino del Horizontal in San Lorenzo de El Escorial:

There you will have to find figures of the animals that Charles III hunted in the Royal Forests.

Take photographs with at least 7 different animals and show them at the Tourist Office – San Lorenzo de El Escorial Interpretation Centre and we will give you a gift from our town.

In the photo, both the person applying for the prize and the “hunted” animals must be recognisable. If there are several people, each person must submit “their photographs”. Collective photos are not allowed.

Important:

• You don't have to be a king to participate.
• Only the first 500 people to submit their “trophies” will be rewarded.