The beautiful lake of El Retiro Park

In the heart of the Buen Retiro Park is this large pond frequented by Madrid residents to sunbathe and ride a boat.

In the heart of the Buen Retiro Park is this large pond frequented by the people of Madrid to sunbathe and go boating.

Built between 1634 and 1636 by the architect Cristobal de Aguilera, this pond was the heart of the garden of the Buen Retiro recreation palace and has been used to host aquatic shows, such as naval battles or naumaquias, and the boat rides of the kings and their court. In fact, at that time, it was connected by an estuary with the chapel of San Antonio de los Portugueses, now disappeared, and the Retiro had its own shipyards to build ships. At that time, the pond had an elliptical-shaped island in the center that was used for theatrical or musical performances.

The lake is beautiful and popular with both tourists and locals. However, the water quality is questionable. There are side restaurants and casfes where you can have a drink overlooking the lake. However, the most beautiful place is the rotunda with the statues.