#Crystal Palace in Retiro Park

[hegdetravelphotos]

Crystal Palace in Retiro Park

Madrid’s Crystal Palace: A Hidden Treasure in Retiro Park! Location: Palacio de Cristal – Crystal Palace in Retiro Park, P.º de Cuba, 4, Retiro, 28009,  Madrid, Spain. Time and Date: Around noon on June 14, 2024.

[proud-spaniard]

Palacio de Cristal, Parque del Retiro, Madrid, España.

Crystal Palace, El Retiro Park, Madrid, Spain.

[chromaglitchgaming]

This is my week 3 build for #BGS5WorldTour this week I decided to visit Madrid, Spain. I’ve traveled here IRL and was super excited to see it on the challenge. 

I decided to recreate a portion of El Retiro Park and challenged myself to use one of the big lots (I always struggle with these), I’m proud of the result.

The park has so many interesting sites to explore, each with unique bits of history, so I chose a couple of areas I would want to explore and tried to make them flow together. Google Maps was definitely my friend here

Things I built:

Puerta de Felipe IV - Entrance Arch and path leading to the Statue of Jacinto Benavente and the Fuente de la Concha del Parterre (fountain).

Estanque Grande de El Retiro (Great Pond of El Retiro) - Central pond in El Retiro Park with a colonnaded monument, popular for rental rowboats & canoes. I combined this lake with the lake outside the Crystal Palace to fit both buildings.

Monument to Alfonso XII - Built-in 1922, this monument in Buen Retiro Park features a colonnade with an equestrian statue.

Palacio de Cristal - Venue for art exhibitions organized by Reina Sofía Museum, modeled on London's Crystal Palace.

Templete del Parque de El Retiro (Retiro Park Bandstand) - Used to host concerts.

Área infantil (Playground) 

A Rosaleda (Cecilio Rodríguez) - Rose Garden

[steliosagapitos]

Crystal Palace of the Buen Retiro Park of Madrid in Spain.

[atotaltaitaitale]

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The beautiful Palacio de Cristal ("Glass Palace") in Bueno Retiro Park.

and what I read on wikipedia. ;-)

The Palacio de Cristal, in the shape of a Greek cross, is made almost entirely of glass set in an iron framework on a brick base, which is decorated with ceramics. Its cupola makes the structure over 22 metres high. When it was erected, glass and iron construction on a large scale was already to be seen in Madrid at Delicias Station (1880), the work of a French architect; however, the curved architecture of the Palacio de Cristal is more comparable to the techniques pioneered by the British architects  Joseph Paxton (who was responsible for London's Crystal Palace) and Decimus Burton  (who was responsible for the Palm House at Kew Gardens). The Palacio de Cristal was, alongside the Pabellon Central, one of the main venues of the 1887 Philippines Exposition

The cast-iron frame was manufactured in Bilbao. The structure was designed in a way that would allow it to be re-erected on another site (as happened to the equivalent building in London). However, the building has remained on the original site, next to a lake, and has been restored to its original appearance. It is no longer used as a greenhouse, and is currently used for art exhibits.

[justkeeptraveling]

Original photo Paula Cuello. May 12,2022

MADRID, SPAIN.

El Retiro Park in Madrid is a must-visit for anyone in the city, offering a beautiful green escape from urban life. Known as "El Retiro," this historic park covers over 125 hectares and provides an idyllic setting for both relaxation and activity. With sprawling gardens, intricate fountains, and peaceful walking paths, El Retiro captures the essence of Madrid's vibrant yet tranquil atmosphere.

One of the park's highlights is the stunning Crystal Palace, a grand, glass-walled structure that often hosts art exhibitions and offers views of the nearby lake. Here, visitors can rent rowboats and enjoy a serene paddle, surrounded by lush greenery and statues that add a touch of elegance to the landscape. The park also offers plenty of spots for picnics, as well as shaded benches for reading or simply people-watching.

El Retiro is more than just a park; it’s a cultural hub where locals and tourists alike come to unwind, exercise, or participate in events. With its enchanting beauty and inviting ambiance, El Retiro provides a perfect blend of nature, art, and relaxation right in the heart of Madrid.

[dsandrvk]

Tuesday, April 9 - Madrid

We had a pretty low-key day, sleeping in and then wandering through neighborhoods and gardens. That said, when we looked at our steps we realized we had walked about eight miles, so we weren't that lazy.

Our first stop (after passing the theater ad for "Book of Mormon") was the Royal Botanical Gardens. It turned out that it was free entry on Tuesdays before 1PM, so we were in luck. Most of the garden isn't in Spring bloom quite yet, as peonies, irises and roses were just beginning to show color, but the bulb display was outstanding. There was also a permanent display of some really elaborate bonsai plants - many 75-100 years old. There were the usual pines and junipers, as well as maples and even a gingko, but this was the first time I saw a bonsai tamarisk!

From here we walked a bit further east to El Retiro Park, which is the largest formal park in Madrid with many different sections. Our weather was perfect, and we were surprised to see how many people were out enjoying the park on a workday. Most of the people were around the Crystal Palace (modelled after the one in Kew Gardens in London), or at the large rectangular lake that also had rowboats, massive statuary, and lots of little cafes. The park and the surrounding Paseo del Prado have been declared a UNESCO World Heritage site. It would take several days to get to all the little places within the park but we did find the rose garden, which was just starting to bloom - it should be gorgeous in about ten days. We also found a lovely formal garden on the east side of the park that had numerous peacocks. At first we thought there were just a couple of males, but as we wandered around we saw at least ten peacocks and about fifteen peahens. There were also a good number of feral cats, but it looks like the adult birds can take care of themselves. Several of the males spread their tails to impress the females, who consistently ignored them. Unfortunately none made a display in the sunlight, where their feathers are so much more dramatic.

It was a lovely way to spend our last day in Spain, and we headed back to our apartment as late as possible, considering we still had some packing to do - reorganizing our bags and putting as much into our checked bags as we could. On our outbound flight two months ago we made sure we had enough in our carry-ons to do our entire trip, if necessary. This time, that isn't a concern at all.

On our walk back, we were struck by the police presence in every square we passed. It turns out that with two of the quarter finals matches for the Premier League Championship here in Madrid, they have elevated the security risk to a level 4 out of 5, owing to potential terrorist threats. And we thought they were just worried about some rowdy Brits!

Tomorrow we head home. Although our first flight isn't until 10:50, we need to head to the airport early, and have ordered a taxi, since it will still be dark when we leave, and we would have to take either three Metro lines, or two trains and a bus to get to our terminal. It has been a wonderful trip - actually three trips in one - but we will be happy to be home. I know I'm ready for the peace and quiet of my neighborhood and yard. Coming home isn't so bad when we live in a place like Moab.

Side note - the last picture is of a light fixture in a bar we passed - there were actually eight lights at different heights but because of window reflections only one was clearly visible.

[umichenginabroad]

Week 10: Sun ☀️ & St. Patrick's Day

This week, we finally got the much-missed sun I’ve been hoping for! To kick off the week, I went walking around Palacio Real and then to Retiro Park. I had been to Retiro twice before, but this time when I went, I discovered a whole new part of the park I had never seen before! That just goes to show how big the park really is. Retiro’s a really interesting park to go to because it’s simultaneously bustling with people while also being someplace you can go just to be by yourself. Around the main lake, there’s always people around, but the second you go deeper into the park, it’s quiet and still. I like that I can both people-watch and relax with just myself and some trees.

The part of Retiro I stumbled upon was a gorgeous garden with fountains and statues. At the entrance, there were some super cool trees pruned in a unique bubbly shape. There was also a guy playing some beautiful violin, and looking around, I could see parents playing with their children and people just relaxing on the benches. It was really nice to see and just be out to enjoy the sun.

Also, during my regular stop at the Crystal Palace in Retiro, I saw all these turtles just chilling on the grass. They were all so still I actually thought they were fake at first!

Walking back home from Retiro, I started craving some ice cream. Now back home, if I wanted ice cream, I would look up an ice cream place and walk to it, but here, I found myself just walking home and trusting that I’ll probably find an ice cream place on my way back. 

This made me realize that that’s one of my favorite things about living in Madrid. Just walking around, you’re bound to cross multiple bakeries, ice cream shops, or little restaurants or snack shops. And many of them are small, family owned places instead of chains. Thinking back, on my daily walk home from school, I often stop at different supermarkets for fruit or ingredients for dinner, sometimes also grabbing a little after school snack. I also always take different routes on my way home, exploring different streets and discovering new stores along the way. That’s how I found an Asian supermarket with the best dumplings, and a fruitería with cherimoya and some of the best mangoes I’ve ever had. It’s nice how integrated these things are within the rest of the city, and the variety of options scattered throughout. 

This weekend, I took another much anticipated trip to Dublin for St. Patrick’s day. Funnily enough, I had actually booked these tickets before even getting my tickets to Madrid to study abroad. Going to Dublin for St. Patrick’s day was definitely a bucket list item for me, and I’m so happy it worked out and I was able to take advantage of being in Spain in March to visit Dublin! 

Walking around the city, I quickly noticed how nice people were. In fact, it felt a lot like the midwestern nice, and it was comforting to be around that familiar feeling. The landscape was also very similar to the Midwest, and in some places, if it weren’t for the cars driving on the left side of the road, I would’ve thought I was back in Michigan. 

At first, it was funny to see the cars with the driver’s seat on the right side, because every time I would look into a car, it would look like it was driving itself with an empty seat on the left. I can imagine that’s not too far in the future…

Also, it was my first time since coming to Madrid that I was in an English-speaking country, which was pretty comforting as well. Conversation came easier, and I missed that extra level of friendliness and small talk.

For the St. Patrick's Day parade, I was surprised to see all the hand-made costumes and floats, and how well done all the themes were!

Being in Dublin was a nice reset, and it also made me appreciate the culture and big city feel that Madrid has a little more. While I enjoyed my weekend here, I’m definitely glad I picked studying in Madrid to experience living in a place much different from back home, and I’ve definitely grown as a result. Overall, this trip was an amazing time, and next time, I want to explore the beautiful green countryside!

Cheers,

Isha Venkatesh

Mechanical Engineering

Comillas — Madrid, Spain

[paramedicabroad]

Paseo del Prado and Buen Retiro, a landscape of Arts and Sciences

Join me on a virtual journey to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Paseo del Prado and Buen Retiro in Madrid, Spain. Let's immerse ourselves in the cultural tapestry woven by grand boulevards, iconic museums, lush gardens, and the harmonious blend of arts and sciences that define this historical ensemble.

In 2021, Paseo del Prado and Buen Retiro were collectively designated a UNESCO World Heritage site. This recognition celebrates the ensemble's exceptional cultural and artistic significance, acknowledging its role as a landscape of arts and sciences.

Escape the urban bustle and enter Buen Retiro Park, an expansive green oasis that offers respite and tranquility. Wander through tree-lined avenues, discover charming sculptures, and indulge in the serene beauty of the Crystal Palace and the Retiro Pond.

Stroll down Paseo del Prado, the grand avenue that serves as the cultural artery of Madrid. Admire the neoclassical architecture that houses some of the world's most renowned museums, including the Prado Museum, the Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum, and the Reina Sofia Museum.

Step into the hallowed halls of the Prado Museum, where masterpieces by Spanish and international artists come to life. From the ethereal works of Velázquez and Goya to the timeless beauty of El Greco, the Prado is a sanctuary for art lovers.

Marvel at the Crystal Palace, an architectural gem nestled within Buen Retiro Park. The transparent structure, made of glass and iron, hosts cultural events and exhibitions, creating a unique fusion of art, nature, and architecture.

Behold the iconic Fountain of Cibeles, a symbol of Madrid and a masterpiece of neoclassical sculpture. The goddess Cibeles, atop her chariot, serves as a majestic guardian overlooking the vibrant life of Paseo del Prado.

Paseo del Prado and Buen Retiro exemplify the harmonious integration of arts and sciences, creating a cultural tapestry that spans centuries. From world-class museums to meticulously designed gardens, this UNESCO site invites visitors to immerse themselves in the rich legacy of Spanish creativity.

Embark on a virtual exploration of Paseo del Prado and Buen Retiro with online museum tours, virtual park walks, and interactive exhibits. Let technology transport you to the heart of Madrid, where the past and present converge in a celebration of artistic and scientific achievements.

In conclusion, Paseo del Prado and Buen Retiro beckon us to experience the soul-stirring beauty of Spanish culture. When you're ready for a digital journey through the landscapes of arts and sciences, this UNESCO World Heritage site promises to captivate your senses and ignite your passion for cultural exploration. 🏛️🌳✨🇪🇸

[yoshishishu]

Kimsooja's Room of Rainbows in Crystal Palace Buen Retiro Park, Madrid Spain

Discover the awe-inspiring beauty of Kimsooja's Room of Rainbows at Crystal Palace in Madrid's enchanting Buen Retiro Park. Lose yourself in a kaleidoscope of hues and reflections, redefining the way we experience art.

[jinweizhang]

THE LANDMARK CRYSTAL PALACE IN 'EI RETIRO' PARK

[mewshuji]

Kimsooja's Room of Rainbows in Crystal Palace Buen Retiro Park, Madrid Spain Immerse yourself in the magic of Kimsooja's Room of Rainbows at Crystal Palace, nestled in the picturesque Buen Retiro Park of Madrid, Spain. Prepare to be mesmerized by the spectacle of colors and reflections.

[luui61]

Retiro Park

The Palacio de Cristal (Palacio de Cristal), located next to the artificial lake, is one of the most famous attractions and one of the most famous iron-framed buildings in Spain. This crystal clear glass house is mainly used for art exhibitions and exotic plant displays.

Photos from google

#architecture

#palace

#retiro

[dougrobyngoold]

A Couple of Plazas, a Park, & a Pouring of Wines - Madrid, Spain

We couldn't get tickets for the palace today, so that has been moved to tomorrow's agenda. Today we are exploring the area to the north of us - starting off with a climb up these steps (pictured above) to Plaza Gabriel Miro.

Awesome view of the cathedral from the plaza, worth the climb!

We passed by the Seminario Conciliar de Madrid (pictured on the left) and Real Basilica de San Francisco el Grande (pictured on the right).

Plaza Mayor - one of the entry arches, the plaza, and the beautiful murals on the tourism building behind the statue.

Teatro Calderon, pictured on the left, a magnificent building. Pictured on the right, a memorial for the labor lawyers who were gunned down by a group of far-right gunmen in 1977 - Monumento a los Abogados de Atocha.

We headed to Parque de El Retiro - a huge urban park located on the eastern side of the city. It was a lovely place, lots of shade and plenty of paths to explore.

A beautiful pond with a waterfall in the park.

I loved the faces on the statues at the base of this statue.

The Crystal Palace, located in the park, from near and afar.

We stopped for lunch at Distrito Vegano - the food was beautiful & delicious!

We ended the day with a wine tasting at Madrid & Darracott - Vinos y experiencas. We met a couple from Israel and a young gal from Mexico City at the tasting - it was a wonderful experience to share wines and stories.

[melhiggs2]

Day 2 7/38/23

Had a late start to the day without late we stayed up due to the jet lag. Started off the morning with a nice traditional Spanish breakfast with an espresso! Met some nice people and took some cute photos of each other! We spent a lot of the afternoon at Retiro park. Had a lot of fun walking around, looking at the crystal palace, and all of the plazas and beautiful fountains and scenery on the way. Stopped for some more tapas for lunch and got Vince to try jamón ibérico before our siesta! Went to the shopping area and walked around! Vince found some new hats and is loving his new style lol. Had dinner in a beautiful Plaza with a great view. Absolutely loved walking around the city and seeing all of the old beautiful buildings. We were supposed to have a bar/dance crawl tour with a group but we couldn’t find them so it seems like maybe they didn’t have enough people for tonight which was kind of a bummer but we ended up having a good time anyways. Finished the night with a gelato and putting my feet up while Vince hand washes clothes ☺️

[journeysunplugged]

A Mesmerizing Journey Through Madrid: The Soul of Spain

Welcome to the vibrant and captivating capital of Spain, Madrid! Nestled in the heart of the country, Madrid is a city that seamlessly blends a rich historical heritage with a modern and cosmopolitan atmosphere. From awe-inspiring architecture to world-class museums, Madrid is a true haven for travelers seeking an unforgettable cultural experience. Join me as we embark on a virtual journey through this mesmerizing city.

Architectural Marvels: Madrid is a visual delight for architecture enthusiasts. Start your exploration at the magnificent Royal Palace, an opulent marvel that exudes grandeur. From there, venture to the Plaza Mayor, a bustling square surrounded by striking buildings adorned with ornate facades. The iconic Gran Via is a must-visit, offering a glimpse into Madrid's architectural prowess with its stunning Art Deco and Art Nouveau buildings.

Cultural Extravaganza: Immerse yourself in Madrid's cultural tapestry by visiting its world-renowned museums. The Prado Museum houses a remarkable collection of European masterpieces, including works by Goya, Velázquez, and El Greco. The Reina Sofia Museum showcases modern and contemporary art, with Picasso's iconic "Guernica" taking center stage. Don't miss the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, which features an extensive range of art spanning multiple centuries.

Authentic Gastronomy: Madrid's culinary scene is a tantalizing fusion of traditional Spanish flavors and innovative creations. Treat your taste buds to a feast of delectable tapas, including patatas bravas, jamón ibérico, and gambas al ajillo. Explore the lively Mercado de San Miguel, where you can sample an array of local delicacies. For a true Madrid experience, indulge in a hearty cocido madrileño, a traditional stew that epitomizes comfort food.

Green Oasis: Escape the urban bustle and find tranquility in Madrid's picturesque parks. The Retiro Park, a green oasis in the heart of the city, offers serene lakes, beautifully landscaped gardens, and the iconic Crystal Palace. Another gem is the Casa de Campo, one of the largest urban parks in Europe, where you can enjoy boating, cycling, or simply relaxing amidst nature.

Nightlife and Flamenco: When the sun sets, Madrid comes alive with its vibrant nightlife. The city boasts a thriving music and club scene, with countless bars and clubs catering to all tastes. Be sure to experience the passionate art of flamenco, with its intense rhythms and captivating performances, at one of Madrid's renowned flamenco venues.

Conclusion: Madrid, with its architectural splendor, cultural treasures, tantalizing cuisine, and lively atmosphere, is a city that captures the essence of Spain. Whether you're strolling through its historic streets, exploring world-class museums, or indulging in its vibrant nightlife, Madrid promises an unforgettable journey filled with rich experiences and memories that will last a lifetime. So pack your bags and let Madrid's enchantment unfold before you!