Name: El Retiro Park
Address: 28009 Madrid, Spain
Rating: 4.8

Expansive, 19th-century park with boating lake & rose garden, plus numerous fountains & statues.

Madrid: A Journey Through History, Art, and Nature #2

Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía

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Real Jardín Botánico

Aishah Alhatem

Valerie Urintsov

MARISOL FERNANDEZ

lidia bem

Jose

Museo Nacional del Prado

Neptune Fountain

Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum

Casa de América

Linares Palace

Puerta de Alcalá

Great Pond of El Retiro

manolo leiro

Maria Camila Rueda

Cris

Frederic Semenoff

Carlos González Trujillo

El Retiro Park

Velázquez Palace

Álvaro Muñoz Marín

Adolfo Martin-Gaitero

David Bruerd

Julián Rodríguez

Quentin Bally

Palacio de Cristal

Rose Garden

Christine Braaten

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Elena Medeiros (Lenatravel)

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Elizabeth

Plaza Mayor

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Felix E Diaz

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Santiago Bernabéu Stadium

Mercado de San Miguel

El Retiro Park spans a vast 118 hectares of green space in the heart of Madrid, offering a tranquil escape from the city bustle.

Green Space

El Retiro Park was first opened to the public in 1868, becoming a beloved destination for locals and tourists alike.

Public Access

Originally built in the 17th century, El Retiro Park was designed for the enjoyment of King Felipe IV, showcasing the grandeur of the Spanish monarchy.

Royal Origins

During a 2001 cleaning and maintenance of the park's pond, workers discovered a surprising array of lost items, including 92 chairs, 41 tables, 20 litter bins, 20 metal benches, 40 boats, skateboards, supermarket trolleys, shoes, cameras, wallets, cell phones, and even a gumball vending machine!

Lost and Found

A monumental fountain in El Retiro Park honors Ramón y Cajal, the first Spaniard to win a Nobel Prize in science. Interestingly, Cajal disliked the monument, finding the depiction of himself undressed to be embarrassing.

Nobel Prize Winner

El Retiro Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a sprawling 300-acre oasis in the heart of Madrid. Once the exclusive retreat of Spanish royalty, it's now a beloved public space teeming with life.

Stroll through the elegant Jardines de Cecilio Rodríguez, inspired by Andalusian gardens, or admire the Parterre Francés, home to a 400-year-old Mexican conifer, believed to be Madrid's oldest tree.

Explore the whimsical Rosaleda rose garden, boasting over 4,000 roses in bloom from May to June. Don't miss the iconic Monument to Alfonso XII, offering panoramic city views from its observation deck.

For art enthusiasts, the park houses the Velázquez Palace and Glass Palace, showcasing temporary exhibitions from the Reina Sofía Museum. The latter, built in 1887, is a stunning glass pavilion that once housed exotic plants from the Philippines.

Discover hidden gems like the recently restored Monkey Pit, a remnant of the former Retiro Menagerie. Admire the ahuehuete or Montezuma cypress, a majestic tree said to have stood since 1630 and witnessed the War of Independence against the French.

El Retiro Park is a vibrant tapestry of history, nature, and culture, offering endless opportunities for exploration and relaxation.

Introduction

Nestled within the sprawling El Retiro Park, the Artificial Mountain stands as a testament to the ingenuity and artistry of its creators. Originally conceived as a reservoir to supply water to the adjacent Buen Retiro Palace, this man-made marvel was transformed into a picturesque landscape in the 19th century. Its slopes are adorned with lush vegetation, cascading waterfalls, and intricate grottoes, creating an enchanting oasis amidst the urban landscape.

The mountain's summit offers breathtaking panoramic views of the park and the city beyond. Visitors can ascend the winding paths, pausing to admire the cascading waters of the waterfall or explore the hidden nooks and crannies. The grottoes, adorned with stalactites and stalagmites, provide a glimpse into the subterranean world.

The Artificial Mountain has played a significant role in the cultural and social life of Madrid. It has served as a backdrop for countless picnics, concerts, and theatrical performances. Its unique beauty has inspired artists and writers, and it remains a beloved destination for locals and tourists alike.

Artificial Mountain

Nestled within the heart of El Retiro Park, a verdant oasis in the bustling city of Madrid, stands a majestic tree, a living testament to the passage of time. This venerable specimen, believed to be the oldest tree in Madrid, is an awe-inspiring Montezuma cypress, its gnarled trunk bearing witness to nearly four centuries of history. Planted in the 17th century, it has stood as a silent observer to the countless events that have unfolded within the park's hallowed grounds.

During the tumultuous Napoleonic Wars, this resilient tree played an unexpected role. Its sturdy branches provided a stable platform for French soldiers to mount a cannon, transforming it into an unlikely artillery post. Miraculously, it survived the conflict, emerging as a symbol of endurance amidst the devastation.

Today, the oldest tree in Madrid stands as a protected monument, its presence revered by locals and visitors alike. Its towering height of 25 meters and distinctive candelabra-like shape make it an unmissable sight. A metal fence surrounds its base, safeguarding it from the wear and tear of time and ensuring its preservation for generations to come.

Madrid's Oldest Tree

Step into the depths of El Retiro Park, where a captivating chapter of history unfolds at the Monkey Pit. Once a bustling hub within the Retiro Menagerie, the precursor to Madrid Zoo, this evocative space now stands as a decorative display, a testament to the park's rich past.

In its heyday, the Monkey Pit housed dozens of baboons, their playful antics entertaining visitors. Today, it remains a captivating sight, transporting you back to an era of animal wonder. Join a guided tour organized by the park to delve into the fascinating history of this unique enclosure.

As you explore the Monkey Pit, let your imagination soar. Picture the lively chatter of primates, the excitement of visitors eager to catch a glimpse of these curious creatures. The Monkey Pit stands as a reminder of the park's evolution, from a royal retreat to a beloved public space.

Whether you're a history buff, an animal enthusiast, or simply seeking a glimpse into El Retiro Park's hidden gems, the Monkey Pit is an unmissable destination. Immerse yourself in its intriguing past and discover a lesser-known facet of this iconic park.

Monkey Pit

El Retiro Park, a sprawling sanctuary in the heart of Madrid, is a verdant oasis that offers respite from the city's vibrant energy. Its sprawling lawns, adorned with manicured flowerbeds and towering trees, invite visitors to stroll leisurely or bask in the tranquility of nature. The park's centerpiece, the Grand Pond, provides a picturesque backdrop for rowboats gliding effortlessly across its glassy surface.

Beyond its natural beauty, El Retiro Park is also a cultural haven. The Crystal Palace, a stunning glass and metal structure, hosts art exhibitions, while the Rose Garden boasts over 400 varieties of roses, creating a fragrant and colorful spectacle. The park's numerous sculptures and monuments, including the iconic Fallen Angel statue, add to its artistic allure.

El Retiro Park has played a significant role in Madrid's history. Once a private retreat for the Spanish monarchy, it was opened to the public in the 19th century and quickly became a beloved destination for locals and tourists alike. Today, it remains a vibrant hub for cultural events, concerts, and open-air markets, showcasing the city's rich cultural heritage.

As the sun begins its descent, El Retiro Park transforms into a magical realm. The trees cast long shadows across the lawns, creating an ethereal atmosphere. The park's many fountains and ponds shimmer under the golden light, adding to the enchanting ambiance. Visitors can take a romantic stroll along the Paseo de las Estatuas, admiring the sculptures that line its path, or simply relax on a bench and soak in the tranquility of this urban oasis.

Madrid's Green Oasis

El Retiro Park, a verdant oasis in the heart of Madrid, holds a special allure for literature enthusiasts. It has been immortalized in the works of renowned Spanish authors, each capturing its unique charm and significance.

Benito Pérez Galdós, a literary giant of the 19th century, frequently set his novels in El Retiro. His characters strolled along its paths, their conversations echoing through the park's tranquil atmosphere. Galdós's writings offer a glimpse into the social and cultural life of Madrid during that era, with El Retiro serving as a backdrop to the city's bustling energy.

Another literary luminary, Ramón Gómez de la Serna, found inspiration in El Retiro's vibrant energy. His writings evoke the park's bohemian spirit, where artists, intellectuals, and eccentrics gathered to exchange ideas and create. Gómez de la Serna's words capture the park's role as a hub of creativity and cultural exchange.

The park's literary legacy extends beyond Spanish authors. Ernest Hemingway, the American literary icon, frequented El Retiro during his time in Madrid. His novel "The Sun Also Rises" features scenes set in the park, capturing its beauty and the vibrant atmosphere of the city.

El Retiro Park stands as a testament to the enduring power of literature. Its verdant paths and tranquil corners have inspired countless writers, providing a backdrop for their stories and characters. For those seeking a literary pilgrimage, El Retiro offers a unique opportunity to connect with the minds and imaginations of some of the greatest writers in history.

Literary Homage

The Statue of The Fallen Angel, a captivating work by Ricardo Bellver, resides in the heart of El Retiro Park, a verdant oasis in Madrid. Unveiled in 1885, this enigmatic sculpture holds the distinction of being the world's only monument dedicated to Lucifer.

Crafted from bronze, the statue depicts the moment Lucifer, cast out of heaven, transforms into Satan. His anguished expression and contorted posture convey the torment of his fall. The pedestal, adorned with eight demonic heads spewing water, adds to the unsettling atmosphere.

Intriguingly, the statue's placement at 666 meters above sea level has fueled speculation of its connection to the "number of the beast." Whether coincidence or deliberate symbolism, this detail adds to the statue's mystique.

Despite its controversial subject matter, the statue has become an iconic landmark in El Retiro Park. Its artistic merit and historical significance have captivated visitors for over a century. Today, it remains a testament to the enduring power of art and the enduring fascination with the enigmatic figure of Lucifer.

Statue of The Fallen Angel

El Retiro Park, a verdant oasis in the heart of Madrid, has witnessed centuries of transformation, reflecting the city's evolving tastes and societal shifts. Its origins trace back to the 15th century when it was a retreat for the Jeronimites monastery. In the 16th century, King Philip II expanded it, adding tree-lined avenues and formal gardens. The park's grandeur reached new heights under the reign of Philip IV, who commissioned the construction of the Buen Retiro Palace and a theater for lavish courtly entertainment.

During the 18th century, the park underwent significant changes. King Ferdinand VI introduced Italian operas, while Charles III replaced the old walls with wrought-iron railings, opening it up to the public. The Peninsular War left its mark, with the palace and gardens destroyed by French troops.

In the 19th century, Queen Isabella II oversaw the park's restoration and expansion. New trees were planted, and previously unplanted areas were landscaped. The park became a popular gathering place for Madrileños, who enjoyed its serene atmosphere and cultural offerings.

In the 20th century, El Retiro Park continued to evolve. The Crystal Palace, a stunning glass pavilion, was built for an exhibition on the Philippines. The park also became a venue for international exhibitions, showcasing technological advancements and artistic achievements.

Today, El Retiro Park stands as a testament to Madrid's rich history and cultural heritage. Its diverse architectural styles, from Renaissance to Neoclassical, reflect the city's architectural evolution. The park's gardens, sculptures, and monuments tell the story of its transformation from a royal retreat to a beloved public space, offering a glimpse into the lives and aspirations of Madrileños throughout the centuries.

Park's Historical Evolution

Nestled within the sprawling El Retiro Park in Madrid, Spain, stands a majestic Mexican conifer, a living testament to the rich history and diverse flora of this urban oasis. Planted in 1633, this venerable tree is believed to be the oldest in the city, its gnarled trunk bearing witness to centuries of change. Its scientific name, Taxodium mucronatum, belies its common moniker, "ahuehuete," derived from the Nahuatl language of the indigenous Aztec people.

The ahuehuete holds a special place in the hearts of Madrileños, who affectionately refer to it as "El Abuelo," or "The Grandfather." Its towering presence has graced countless events, from the grandeur of royal processions to the humble picnics of families seeking respite from the city's bustle.

During the Napoleonic Wars, legend has it that French soldiers spared the ahuehuete, recognizing its strategic value as a support for their artillery. This act of preservation ensured its survival, allowing it to continue its stately reign over the park.

Today, the ahuehuete stands as a symbol of resilience and longevity, its evergreen foliage providing a vibrant contrast to the changing seasons. Visitors can marvel at its sheer size, its trunk measuring an impressive 52 meters in circumference. Its intricate root system, visible above ground, adds to its ancient charm.

As one of the Singular Trees of the Community of Madrid, the ahuehuete is a protected natural monument, its preservation a testament to the city's commitment to its green heritage. Whether admiring its grandeur from afar or seeking solace beneath its leafy canopy, the Mexican conifer of El Retiro Park offers a unique and unforgettable experience, connecting visitors to the rich history and natural beauty of this beloved urban sanctuary.

Mexican Conifer

El Retiro Park, nestled in the heart of Madrid, Spain, stands as a testament to the harmonious fusion of nature, art, and history. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2021, the park is an integral part of the "Landscape of Light" cultural complex, which encompasses the iconic Paseo del Prado. This designation acknowledges the park's exceptional universal value and its role as a living testament to the Enlightenment ideals that shaped Madrid's urban landscape in the 16th century.

El Retiro Park boasts a rich tapestry of architectural and natural wonders. The centerpiece of the park is the magnificent Crystal Palace, a stunning glass pavilion built in 1887 to house exotic plants for an exhibition on the Philippines. Its intricate ironwork and ethereal design make it a masterpiece of 19th-century architecture. The park is also home to the Monument to Alfonso XII, an opulent tribute to the Spanish king, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape from its observation deck.

Beyond its architectural marvels, El Retiro Park is a haven for nature enthusiasts. The park's sprawling lawns, tranquil lake, and towering trees provide a sanctuary for diverse flora and fauna. Visitors can stroll through the Rose Garden, admire the vibrant colors of the Parterre Francés, or explore the Monkey Pit, a remnant of the park's former zoological collection. The park's verdant expanse offers a welcome respite from the bustling city, inviting visitors to relax, rejuvenate, and connect with nature.

As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, El Retiro Park stands as a symbol of Madrid's cultural heritage and its commitment to preserving its architectural and natural treasures. The park's inclusion on this prestigious list underscores its importance as a living testament to the harmonious coexistence of art, nature, and urban planning, making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to delve into the rich tapestry of Madrid's history and culture.

UNESCO World Heritage Site

Nestled within the sprawling El Retiro Park, the Monument to King Alfonso XII stands as a grand tribute to the beloved monarch. Inaugurated in 1922, this architectural marvel is a testament to the king's legacy and the artistic prowess of its creators.

The monument's centerpiece is an equestrian statue of Alfonso XII, cast in bronze and perched atop a towering column. Surrounding the king are allegorical figures representing peace, liberty, and progress, each meticulously crafted with intricate detail. A semicircular colonnade frames the statue, its Ionic columns echoing the grandeur of ancient Roman and German monuments.

Beneath the colonnade, a grand staircase descends towards the park's tranquil lake, flanked by majestic stone lions. The lake itself forms an integral part of the monument, reflecting the grandeur of the structure and providing a serene backdrop for contemplation.

The monument's ornamentation is equally impressive, featuring friezes adorned with the coats of arms of Spanish provinces and scenes depicting traditional professions of the time. The bronze reliefs on the central base showcase the artistry of renowned sculptors, capturing moments of historical significance.

Throughout the year, guided tours offer visitors the opportunity to ascend to the monument's viewpoint, providing breathtaking panoramic vistas of the surrounding park, the elegant Salamanca neighborhood, and the iconic buildings along Gran Vía.

El Retiro Park

Did You Know?

Green Space

Public Access

Royal Origins

Lost and Found

Highlights from Reviews

Location