Parque del Buen Retiro

The Retiro Park is the best known park in Madrid. It was planned in 1632 as palace gardens by King Felipe IV. 'Retiro' means retreat or a place to rest.

When it was first built, it was a little way from the city. Now, the city has become so big that it is in the city center. It was opened to the public in 1868.

Places in the park include a famous rose garden, a museum, a boating lake and the Crystal Palace. Many shows and street theaters can be seen at the park on weekends.