Paris1972-Versailles2003

Of course , written plenty on this wonderful city, and as well on the Retiro park. I like to tell you more of the Estanque Grande del Buen Retiro or big pond of the Retiro park. This is due to my latest visit to it with new pictures, and update on new things there, Therefore, here is my new take on the Estanque Grande del Parque del Buen Retiro of Madrid, part II !!! Hope you enjoy the post as I.

The Estanque Grande del Buen Retiro or the Grand Pond of the Good Retreat, popularly known as the Retiro Estanque or Pond, is an extension of an artificial body of water, located in the Retiro Park. It was created in the first half of the 17C as one of the most important landscape elements of the Buen Retiro,an ancient possession of the Spanish Crown arising during the reign of Felipe IV. Its ownership corresponds, since 1868, to the City Of Madrid, as well as the landscaped spaces on which the current public park was formed. With an area of 37 240 m2 and a volume of water of 55 150 m3, it has a jetty that allows recreational navigation and the holding of rowing and canoeing competitions. The most striking ornamental element of the Estanque Grande is the Monument to Alfonso XII , done in 1922 , as well as the Egyptian Fountain.

The Estanque Grande or Big Pond occupies a rectangle about 280 meters long by 140 meters wide. Thousands of fish live inside it, some of considerable size, which rise to the surface when bread crumbs are thrown at them. Its maximum depth is 1.80 meters and the minimum is 60 cm. Rowing boats can be rented every day of the week, by Paseo de Colombia conditions permitting. In winter the closing time will be earlier, depending on the sunset. A Solar Boat offering small tourist cruises is now operating. The duration of the tour is about 15 minutes and the price is 2€ per adult person, The boat, which they say is unsinkable, has a capacity for 80 persons and is powered exclusively by solar energy.

During the reign of queen Isabel II, the Paseo de las Estatuas (later christened Argentina) was opened, which touches the west bank with the Puerta de España (Spanish Gate). After the transfer of the Real Sitio to the City of Madrid in 1868, the Avenida de México was inaugurated, which links its northwest angle with the Puerta de la Independencia (Puerta de Alcalà), through the Fuente de los Galapagos. The pond is bounded by four main tracks. The Calle de Nicaragua runs along its west side, while The Plaza del Maestro Villa passes through the back of the Monument to Alfonso XII, marking the eastern flank. To the north extends the Paseo del Estanque and to the south the Paseo de Venezuela.

By the way, the pond will become the stage for the free Floating Cabaret concert. Music from cuplé, revues and varietés, a very original show that will take place on September 16 and 17, 2023 in one of the best-known enclaves of the city.

The Madrid tourist office on the Retiro Park Pond : https://www.esmadrid.com/en/tourist-information/estanque-grande-de-el-retiro

There you go folks, another fine visit to something wonderful in my dear Madrid, This is a must to visit and enjoy it fully with many activities. The is a wonderful memorable part of  my dear Madrid,  Again, hope you have enjoy the post on the Estanque Grande del Parque del Buen Retiro of Madrid, part II !!! as I

And remember, happy travels, good health ,and many cheers to all !!!