El Retiro Park

The origin of the park started in the century XVII during the reign of Philip IV. Initially, it was a recreational site for the Royal family. During the Independence War (1808-1814) it was almost totally destroyed. In 1868, during the reign of Isabella II, it was opened to the general public and underwent a series of transformations. One of the main attractions is located by the pond; the monument to Alfonso XII was completed at the beginning of XX century. The park is a green heart in the center of the city, made even more attractive for the monuments and sculptures located in the park.