King Alfonso XIII personally inaugurated the reservoir on May 21, 1921.
The furniture was carved as a rustic but permanent 'throne' specifically for the monarch to oversee the civil engineering project.
The reservoir complex is a critical part of the Malaga province's water supply system.
The surrounding area is part of the Desfiladero de los Gaitanes natural site, known for the Caminito del Rey trail.
The Sillón del Rey, or 'King's Chair', is a set of stone furniture carved directly into the rock face overlooking the Conde de Guadalhorce reservoir in Ardales. The site consists of a stone table and two chairs commissioned in 1921 for King Alfonso XIII to sign the inauguration documents for the reservoir project. It is situated at the narrowest point of the dam complex, providing an elevated vantage point of the surrounding landscape. The site serves as a historical marker of the royal visit that occurred during the final construction phase of the Guadalhorce-Guadalteba reservoir system. The stone remains are integrated into the cliffside environment, maintaining their original position since the early 20th century.
From the trail level looking up toward the chair to capture the stone against the backdrop of the turquoise reservoir water.
Use sturdy, closed-toe footwear as the ground surrounding the stone furniture is uneven and rocky.
Visit during the shoulder seasons to avoid extreme heat, as the area has minimal shade.
Bring your own water, as there are no amenities located directly at the site.
Do not mistake this for the Caminito del Rey ticketed entrance; this is a separate, free historical lookout point.
Do not climb or sit on the historical stone structures to help preserve the original 1921 carving.
