The origin of this place—whose name inspired both our real estate group and the entire area—began as a large residential development leased to the United States military. What was once known as “Little America” has since evolved into one of the most exclusive and desirable neighbourhoods in Madrid.
Before 1992, life in El Encinar de los Reyes was a true reflection of American culture. Its streets were lined with sheriff’s cars, road signs in miles, and iconic yellow school buses.
Planes arrived daily carrying copies of The New York Times and baseball gear, while the white picket-fenced houses hosted celebrations like Thanksgiving and Halloween. Baseball and basketball teams trained on local grounds, and the community embraced a distinctly American lifestyle—just a few kilometres from the centre of Madrid.
Today, those who lived through those years remember them with great fondness. A dedicated Facebook group and various online forums keep the memory of this unique
“Little America” alive, sharing stories and photos that capture the lasting mark El Encinar left on multiple generations.
Before 1992, life in El Encinar de los Reyes echoed American suburbia. The streets were dotted with sheriff’s patrol cars, road signs measured in miles, and classic yellow school buses.
Planes arrived daily delivering The New York Times and baseball uniforms, while white picket-fenced homes hosted celebrations like Thanksgiving and Halloween. Baseball and basketball teams trained in the community’s own facilities, and residents embraced a distinctly American lifestyle—just minutes from central Madrid.
Those who lived there look back on those years with deep affection. A dedicated Facebook group and online forums continue to preserve the memory of this unique “Little America” sharing stories and photographs that reflect the lasting impression El Encinar left on generations past.
Much has changed since then. After a significant period of renewal, El Encinar de los Reyes has become one of Madrid’s most exclusive residential areas. The 1950s-era homes and townhouses gave way to modern developments built to the highest standards, with enhanced security and excellent transport links—captured beautifully in the iconic photography of Hisao Suzuki.
Its proximity to La Moraleja and its aspirational lifestyle have long attracted business leaders and executives— a trend that continues to this day. Today, many of these homes are available to rent, maintaining the prestige and exclusivity that have always defined the area.
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