Parque del Retiro description and photos - Spain: Madrid (Topic)

Parque del Retiro description and photos - Spain: Madrid. Detailed information about the attraction. Description, photographs and a map showing the nearest significant objects. The title in English is Parque del Retiro.

Photo and description

The Retiro Park, located in the central part of the city, very close to Piazza de Alcala and the Prado Museum, is one of the most beautiful and popular in Madrid. This beautiful park, located on an area of 350 acres and decorated with sculptures, monuments, alleys, ponds and fountains, is rightfully considered one of the main attractions of the capital.

Until 1505, the monastery of St. Jerome was located on the site of the park. In 1561, under King Philip II, the Spanish royal court moved to Madrid, and by order of Philip II, under the leadership of the architect Jean Baptiste de Toledo, the Retiro Park was rebuilt and expanded. During the reign of Philip IV, the park became a favorite vacation spot for the royal family. It was at this time that the park received its present name, after all, Retiro is translated from Spanish as "good solitude." In 1868, the park was taken over by the city municipality, and residents of the city were given the opportunity to walk here. Since then, the Retiro Park has become a favorite place for walks and recreation for Madrid residents.

In the park, on the shores of a large picturesque lake, there is a magnificent equestrian statue of King Alfonso XII, surrounded by a semicircular colonnade. On the territory of the park are the Crystal Palace and the Palace of Velazquez, in the pavilions of which exhibitions are often held.

Retiro Park is always full of visitors. The bright green of the lawns is conducive to relaxation, the tall crowns of trees give the desired coolness on hot summer days, the flat paths attract fans of roller skating and cycling.

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Topic: Parque del Retiro description and photos - Spain: Madrid.