Buen Retiro Park

Take a leisurely stroll in one of the largest parks of the city – created in the 17th century, Parque del Buen Retiro is the largest park in Madrid. The park belonged to the Spanish Royalty before becoming a public park in 19th century. A large artificial lake, the Estanque del Retiro occupies the northern end of the oval park. Right next to the lake is the Monument to King Alfonso XII, featuring a semicircular colonnade, and an equestrian statue of the monarch. Fountain of the Fallen Angel by Ricardo Bellver occupies the centre of the Rosadela. Palacio de Velázquez, and Palacio de Cristal are other highlights of the Retiro Park. The crystal palace at the edge of a smaller lake in the south was created to house exotic plants brought from Philippines. The Ejército Museum inside the park houses an army museum and famous La Tizona, the sword of Spanish warrior El Cid. Get away from the hustle bustle of the city and spend a leisure afternoon in this green patch in the centre of the city. Walk along the Paseo de la Argentina, and get acquainted to the history of Spanish monarchs whose statues line the passage.