Casa de Campo
Madrid, Comunidad de
Casa de Campo, located west of central Madrid, is the city's largest public park, spanning approximately 1,722.6 hectares, making it significantly larger than many famous urban parks worldwide. Originally established in the early 16th century as a royal hunting estate for the Spanish monarchy, it was opened to the public in 1931 and has since become a beloved recreational and cultural space. The park features a variety of landscapes, predominantly holm oak forests and Mediterranean shrubbery, alongside numerous non-native trees such as stone pines and cypresses. Casa de Campo houses notable attractions including the Parque de Atracciones amusement park, the Madrid Zoo, and an artificial lake for leisure activities. It is connected to the Parque del Oeste by the Teleférico de Madrid gondola lift, which offers scenic views and convenient access. The park also holds historical significance as the front lines of the Siege of Madrid during the Spanish Civil War passed through it. Declared an Asset of Cultural Interest and classified as a historic park by Madrid authorities, Casa de Campo blends natural beauty, cultural heritage, and urban leisure, making it a unique destination for both locals and tourists.
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Tip: Visitors should consider reaching Casa de Campo via the Teleférico de Madrid for a scenic entry and enjoy the panoramic views of Madrid. Early spring and autumn offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Tickets for attractions like the amusement park and zoo are recommended to be purchased in advance to avoid queues. The park offers various discounts for families, seniors, and groups. Public transit connections via Madrid Metro lines 5 and 10 provide convenient access. Comfortable walking shoes are advised due to the park's vast size and numerous trails.
Interesting facts
- •Casa de Campo is roughly five times larger than New York City's Central Park and twice the size of Paris' Bois de Boulogne.
- •The park was a key front line during the Siege of Madrid in the Spanish Civil War between 1936 and 1939.
- •It contains over 686,000 trees and shrubs, including 18 classified as Singular Trees with special characteristics.
- •The Teleférico de Madrid gondola connects Casa de Campo with Parque del Oeste, providing panoramic views over Madrid.
- •In 2010, Casa de Campo was declared an Asset of Cultural Interest by the Community of Madrid.
History
The area of Casa de Campo has been inhabited since the Paleolithic era, with evidence of Roman settlements such as the mansio Miacum within its bounds.
It was a royal hunting ground from the early 16th century, serving the Spanish monarchy and nobility.
In 1931, the estate was transferred to public ownership and opened as a park.
During the Spanish Civil War (1936-1939), the park's grounds were part of the front lines in the Siege of Madrid, marking its role in the city's turbulent history.
Over the centuries, the park's landscape evolved from royal hunting grounds to a multifunctional urban park with cultural and recreational facilities.
Place Guide
Teleférico de Madrid
A gondola lift connecting Casa de Campo with Parque del Oeste, offering visitors spectacular aerial views of Madrid and easy access to the park's western entrance. The drop-off point includes a restaurant and playgrounds.
Parque de Atracciones de Madrid1969
An amusement park located within Casa de Campo featuring a variety of rides and entertainment options suitable for all ages, making it a family-friendly destination.
Madrid Zoo Aquarium1770 (original zoo establishment)
A major zoological park inside Casa de Campo housing a diverse collection of animals and marine life, dedicated to conservation and education.
Artificial Lake
A large man-made lake within the park used for recreational activities such as rowing and relaxing by the water.
Contact
Phone: 915 29 10 28
