El Palacio del Riofrio

Earlier this week we took a mini field trip to el Palacio del Riofrio.  I enjoyed this even more than going to the castle.  El Palacio del Riofrio was built in the 1700's for sparring members of the Spanish royal family to hide out in.  It was never fully completed, as evidenced by the straw mats that cover the clay floor.  Still, the high ceilings, intricate wallpaper, crazy furniture, and impressive double staircase went above what I would have considered adequate for residency.  At the same time, the building isn't heated, and is actually noticeably colder inside than it is outside.  Half of the building is a hunting museum.  The palace has served as a hunting lodge and as a refuge for heartbroken kings.  Unfortunately, photos aren't permitted inside, but there are some pretty good ones here.