They say that you don't really know a city until you start discovering cute places of your own that aren't plastered all over tourist websites and books. Parque del Buen Retiro is probably the epitome of this saying and truth be told, it was my first impression of Madrid and it showed a lot about what Spain is like as a culture and how they sustain. Before a group of us decided to go to a park, we just thought it would be a cute way to spend our first day in Spain, but little did I know that I'd be able to see so many of the environmental and cultural sustainability initiatives in such a common, non-touristy place.
As if it were fate, the first thing we saw right before entering the park was Puerta de Alcala, which once symbolized the start of Madrid. Commissioned in 1770s, it is now at the very center of Madrid, demonstrating the grand Spanish metropolis. This gate serves as a continuous welcoming of people into the city, preserving much of its cultural integrity and importance.
The park itself was absolutely breathtaking and it was evident that the Spanish community wanted to preserve its beauty and cultural significance. El Parque del Buen Retiro had a healthy combination of ecotourism and sustainable development.
On the above right, you can see a small lake surrounding a statue. Many couples and quartets rented a little boat and for just 6 euros per boat, you can spend 45 minutes rowing back and forth on the lake admiring the beauty around you. Here, there was not only economic sustainability, but also environmental sustainability - for such an affordable price, you can spend an afternoon opening a bottle of wine and taking pictures on the boat, which brings me to cultural sustainability. We personally got to witness the botellon phenomenon in which Spanish teens gather at common places to drink. The Glass Castle on the above left is a free site to visit at this park which preserves the architectural wonder and the beautiful black swans and wildlife in the vicinity.
Overall, great first day in Madrid! Can't wait to see what other surprises await :)
On the above right, you can see a small lake surrounding a statue. Many couples and quartets rented a little boat and for just 6 euros per boat, you can spend 45 minutes rowing back and forth on the lake admiring the beauty around you. Here, there was not only economic sustainability, but also environmental sustainability - for such an affordable price, you can spend an afternoon opening a bottle of wine and taking pictures on the boat, which brings me to cultural sustainability. We personally got to witness the botellon phenomenon in which Spanish teens gather at common places to drink. The Glass Castle on the above left is a free site to visit at this park which preserves the architectural wonder and the beautiful black swans and wildlife in the vicinity.
Overall, great first day in Madrid! Can't wait to see what other surprises await :)