Crystal Palace (Retiro)
Madrid, Comunidad de
The Crystal Palace (Palacio de Cristal) is a remarkable glass and iron building located in Madrid's Retiro Park. Constructed in 1887 by architect Ricardo Velázquez Bosco for the Exposición General de las Islas Filipinas, it exemplifies the use of metal and glass architecture in Madrid. Inspired by London's Crystal Palace built in 1851, the structure was designed to showcase tropical plants, featuring a large central dome reaching 22.6 meters in height and surrounded by three naves arranged in a cloverleaf shape. Its transparent walls and iron columns allow abundant natural light, creating an ideal climate for exotic flora, including aquatic plants housed in a central basin. The building is surrounded by an artificial lake and chestnut trees, enhancing its natural ambiance. The palace's ceramic decoration, crafted by Daniel Zuloaga, includes intricate friezes and grotesque figures. Historically, it was the site where Manuel Azaña was elected president of the Spanish Republic in 1936. After a restoration in 1975, it became one of the venues of the Reina Sofía Museum, hosting contemporary art exhibitions that enrich Madrid's cultural landscape.
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Astuce: Visit the Crystal Palace during spring or early autumn for pleasant weather and vibrant park surroundings. Booking tickets in advance for exhibitions at the Reina Sofía Museum can save time. The site offers occasional discounts for students and seniors. Arrive early to enjoy the serene lake and gardens before crowds gather. Check the museum's website for current exhibitions and guided tours to enhance your visit.
Faits intéressants
- •The Crystal Palace's design was inspired by the famous Crystal Palace in London's Hyde Park built in 1851 by Joseph Paxton.
- •Its large central dome reaches 22.6 meters high, covering a basin for aquatic plants.
- •The palace was the site where Manuel Azaña was elected president of the Spanish Republic in 1936.
- •Ceramic decorations by Daniel Zuloaga include grotesque figures with duck heads.
- •The surrounding artificial lake hosts swamp cypress trees whose trunks and roots grow submerged in water.
Histoire
The Crystal Palace was built in 1887 by Ricardo Velázquez Bosco to host the Exposición General de las Islas Filipinas, celebrating Spain's colonial presence.
Inspired by Joseph Paxton's 1851 Crystal Palace in London, it showcased tropical plants in a controlled environment.
In 1936, it served as the venue for the election of Manuel Azaña as president of the Spanish Republic.
The palace underwent a major restoration in 1975 to restore its original appearance.
Today, it functions as a venue for contemporary art exhibitions under the Reina Sofía Museum.
Guide du lieu
Central Dome and Aquatic Plant Basin1887
The soaring central dome, 22.6 meters tall, crowns a large basin designed to house aquatic plants, creating a unique indoor ecosystem flooded with natural light.
Ceramic Friezes and Decorations1887
Decorative ceramic elements crafted by Daniel Zuloaga adorn the palace, featuring intricate grotesques and duck-headed figures that add artistic flair to the iron and glass structure.
Artificial Lake and Surrounding Gardens
An artificial lake encircles the palace, enhancing the natural setting and supporting swamp cypress trees whose roots grow submerged, creating a serene environment for visitors.
Contact
Téléphone: 915 74 56 17
