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Retiro Park is the most popular and some may argue beautiful park in Madrid. On a Sunday afternoon you will see many Madrileņos walking with their families in the park, escaping from the stresses of the week.
The Retiro was originally built for the Spanish King Phillip IV and was opened to the general public in the 1800's. Full of interesting buildings and monuments, one of the most beautiful is the Crystal Palace, which is made entirely of glass.
Location:
Located in the very heart of the city, not far from Sol, and borders with the upmarket Salamanca area. Approximately 300 acres of green, open space amidst the hustle and bustle of the city centre. Nearest metro station is Retiro.
Events:
The Madrid Book Fair, the Feria del Libro, is held here from the end of May to the beginning of June. Other open-air events - concerts, a film festival, are also held, especially in the summer.
Famous Monuments:
Amongst the park's numerous statues, there is one called the "Angel Caido" - said to be the only statue in the world dedicated to a fallen angel.
Gastronomy:
There are several good quality tapas bars near the northeast corner of Retiro Park, next to the Torre de Valencia. Casa Portal has excellent tortillas and La Monteria serves a broad range of tapas in a relaxed, cosy atmosphere.
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