VISIT THE CRYSTAL PALACE

An architectural gem in the Retiro
Located in Retiro Park, Madrid's green lung, the Crystal Palace is a monumental greenhouse inspired by London's Crystal Palace. Built in 1887 to house an exhibition of tropical plants from the Philippines, it is now managed by the Reina Sofía Museum and hosts temporary exhibitions of contemporary art.

Why visit?
Its light architecture, made entirely of glass and iron, creates a unique atmosphere in which the light reflects the seasons. It is one of Madrid's most photogenic venues, appreciated as much for its aesthetics as for the artistic events it hosts.

A brief history and anecdotes
The Crystal Palace was designed by Ricardo Velázquez Bosco, a great 19th-century architect from Madrid. Anecdote: it was originally built as a temporary glasshouse, but was so successful that it became a permanent attraction. Its reflections in the surrounding pond make it a magical place, especially at sunset.

What can you do there?
- Discover temporary exhibitions of contemporary art
- Stroll around the pond and admire the reflections of the palace
- Enjoy the natural light streaming through its stained glass windows
- Stop off at the Retiro for a picnic or a boat trip

Where is it?
📍 Retiro Park, Madrid, Spain
👉 See on Google Maps

Practical advice
- Free admission
- Easily accessible on foot from Puerta de Alcalá or Plaza de Cibeles
- Check the opening times of temporary exhibitions (closed on certain days)
- The palace may be closed in extreme weather conditions (strong wind, rain)

To discover around
- Retiro Park (botanical gardens, statue of the Fallen Angel, Estanque Grande)
- Prado Museum
- Reina Sofía Museum
- Puerta de Alcalá

Audioguide
🎧 Listen to our immersive description of the Crystal Palace on History Guide City Madrid !
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