El Retiro, Madrid's iconic park, was historically the exclusive reserve of Spanish royalty until the late 19th century when it was opened to the public. Now, this sprawling 292-acre (118-hectare) green space offers visitors ornate fountains, statues of Spanish writers and heroes, gazebos, and exhibition spaces for all to enjoy. True to its name, which translates to 'retirement' or 'rest', Madrileños often spend their time relaxing on the grass or partaking in the many open-air cafés, away from the bustling city. Visitors may traverse a range of landscaping styles, from French-inspired manicured lawns to craggy tree-lined pathways and romantic rose gardens.

Among the park grounds are a few noteworthy landmarks, including the Monument to Alfonso XII, which is a grand colonnade overlooking a central lake, and The Fallen Angel, the only publicly commissioned statue of Lucifer in the world. The oldest tree in Madrid, planted in 1633, can also be found here.

The park has a rich history, initially created during the reign of Felipe IV in the 17th century and situated next to the Jerónimos Monastery (which still stands today). The Palacio del Buen Retiro, an expansive palace complex that once stood to one side of the park, was destroyed by a fire in the 18th century. During the War of Independence of 1808-1814, Parque el Buen Retiro was transformed into a fortress and barracks for Napoleon’s troops, which led to the destruction of many parts of the park. The Casa de Fieras (House of Wild Animals), a zoo that existed on the park grounds until 1972, displayed animals brought back from Spanish colonies, including leopards, hyenas, polar bears and elephants. Tragically, many of the animals perished in the Spanish Civil War.