Buen Retiro Park is Madrid’s first major park.. The park, located on the edge of the city center, has an area of 350 decares. The park, which belongs to the Spanish monarchy, was turned into a public park after the 19th century.. Home to statues, monuments, galleries, a magnificent lake and a wonderful greenery, the park is one of the most well-known places in Madrid.
It was built by Felipe IV in the 17th century to protect Queens and Kings.. Opened to the public in 1868, this park is very crowded in the summer months. It hosts a magnificent atmosphere with Spanish families coming for a picnic and tourists competing to get on the boats.
