San Lorenzo de El Escorial Monastery is a XVI century monument, key in the spanish history, which his correct understanding and positioning really presents some dificulties.The Philipe the Second's purposes, his way of managing the religious problems, his conception of art and architecture were a part of a mysterious legend arousen around his personal profile and his monastery.Along this book we have tried to clarify all these aspects in order to offer a more consistent wiew of this universal art and history masterpiece.