Royal Site of Riofrío

Nine kilometres from Segovia and 15 kilometres from La Granja, the Royal Palace of Riofrío stands majestically on a hill. Philip V bought the first plots of land in 1724, but it was his widow, Isabella Farnese, who gave orders for a palace to be built there for hunting and as a place of retirement. To get there, visitors must cross its forest, an important ecological reserve of holm oaks, ashes and junipers inhabited by more than 100 listed animal species such as red deer, fallow deer and vultures.

Viewed from a distance, the palace is a breathtaking sight with its pink walls and crowning pinnacles.  Inside, it is notable for its fine-wood furnishings, mirrors and porcelain, and sweeping curtains, among other features. A recent programme undertaken by Patrimonio Nacional to enrich and restore the palace to its historical appearance has made it possible to largely recover the rooms’ nineteenth-century decoration and uses. 

Riofrío has welcomed numerous productions, such as the series ‘La Cocinera de Castamar’ and the film ‘Juana de Vega’.