2. To provide a residence and monastery for the Spanish royal family and the Order of Saint Jerome. The El Escorial was also intended to provide a residence for the Spanish royal family and a monastery for the Order of Saint Jerome. The Order of Saint Jerome is a Roman Catholic religious order that was founded in the 14th century. The order is known for its strict asceticism and its emphasis on prayer and contemplation.
3. To serve as a mausoleum for the Spanish royal family. The El Escorial also serves as a mausoleum for the Spanish royal family. The remains of many Spanish kings, queens, and princes are interred in the monastery's crypt.