Celebrating geographical diversity

Abstract

Any landscape is in itself a manifestation or a celebration of geographical diversity. But, in countries like ours, marked by a strong humanization, landscapes are even more valuable. These landscapes become a great subject of study and not just for physical geographers, but also for human geographers. This combination of environment and humankind, throughout History, has not been as successfully implemented everywhere. And that is why we have decided to concentrate and analyze the landscaping surrounding the Aranjuez Royal Place. It is a place that perfectly represents a model that is constant in most European countries, where manmade construction presides over nature.

As a result of this, there are multiple orchards, gardens and hedges around the palace, and also a very peculiar baroque town. These particular conditions have given the city of Aranjuez the honour of being included in the World Heritage List by UNESCO. This landmark, celebrated in 2001, has been a turning point on the way this palace has been perceived and studied. The different elements that are part of the landscape have been interpreted in order to understand its symbolism and are now also considered essential part of the Spanish national heritage.