The 'chair' is believed to have been used by King Philip II to view the progress of the monastery's stone masonry work from a distance.
The platforms are carved from large boulders of granite, a rock type abundant in the Sierra de Guadarrama region.
The site offers a direct line of sight to the main facade of the El Escorial Monastery, aligning with its architectural axis.
The surrounding Herrería forest is a protected site classified as a 'Paraje Pintoresco' for its ecological and landscape value.
Evidence of human activity at this site predates the 16th century, with theories suggesting the platforms may have originally been part of an ancient Vetton altarpiece.
Silla de Felipe II consists of ancient, stepped granite platforms carved directly into the bedrock on the hillside of the Herrería forest. It serves as a natural balcony overlooking the Royal Monastery of San Lorenzo de El Escorial. Historical accounts suggest King Philip II used this vantage point to supervise the construction of the monastery complex in the 16th century. The site is situated within a protected natural landscape known as the Herrería forest, which features significant stands of ash and oak trees. These granite outcrops are geologically integrated into the Sierra de Guadarrama mountain range. The location is an open-air site accessible via walking trails from the lower valley floor. There is no infrastructure for interior exhibition, as the site is purely a historical observation point.
From the highest point of the carved granite steps looking toward the monastery, which perfectly frames the building against the valley.
Wear sturdy, closed-toe hiking shoes as the path is unpaved, uneven, and contains loose gravel.
Bring your own water and sun protection, as there are no facilities or shade once you reach the granite platforms.
Follow the marked trail signs from the parking area to avoid getting lost in the dense forest paths.
Attempting to drive directly to the summit, as access is restricted to pedestrian footpaths; expecting a formal building or visitor center at the location.
Maintain silence as this is a protected historical and natural site; do not climb on the stones if signs prohibit it; pack out all trash.
