The RCU Escorial-Mª Cristina was founded by the Regent Queen María Cristina de Hasburgo y Lorena, in 1892, run by the Augustinian religious order since its foundation. It is an Upper Educational Center associated with the Complutense University of Madrid.

The Escorial – María Cristina Royal University Center is located in an extraordinary setting and in fabulous surroundings. The University Campus forms a part of the astonishing monumental architectronic complex of the Royal Monastry of El Escorial founded by King Phillip II in the 16th century. This all provides a particularly beneficial atmosphere for studying and inter/personal relationships.

The buildings are true gems of architecture, with completely modernised facilities: Student Residence, Library, sports area, lecture halls equipped with projection facilities, computing rooms, etc.