Visiting Maria Luisa Park
Spanning 34 hectares (about 84 acres), Maria Luisa Park is the largest public green space in Seville. This area was once part of the private gardens of the Palacio de San Telmo (Saint Elmo Palace), which belonged to the Infanta María Luisa, the second daughter of King Ferdinand VII, and her husband, the Duke of Montpensier. After the Duke passed away in 1893, the Infanta gifted the gardens to the city. The grounds were later redesigned for the 1929 Ibero-American Exposition by French landscape architect Jean Claude Nicolas Forestier.
An iconic landmark of Seville
The park was developed in harmony with the nearby Plaza de España and Plaza de América, both designed by architect Aníbal González. Beyond the constant presence of water, these plazas are defined by monumental palaces and former exposition pavilions. The Fine Arts pavilion now houses the Archaeological Museum of Seville, while the Mudéjar pavilion has been converted into the Museum of Popular Arts and Traditions of Seville. You will also find a monument dedicated to the writer Miguel Cervantes in the Plaza de América.
What to see at Maria Luisa Park
Maria Luisa Park functions as a botanical garden, showcasing Mediterranean flora including palms, kentias, date palms, magnolias, and eucalyptus. As for wildlife, keep an eye out for exotic birds like green parrots and peacocks.
The Isleta de los Pájaros (Birds' Islet) is the largest body of water in the park. Created in the 19th century, it is overlooked by the elegant Alfonso XII pavilion. Do not miss the Lions' Fountain, decorated with traditional azulejos (glazed ceramic tiles), or the Frogs' Fountain. In the northern section of the park, you will find the Bécquer monument, a marble statue paying tribute to the Romantic poet Gustavo Adolfo Bécquer.
This beautiful garden is worth the trip!
It is for everyone, and it will satisfy the whole family.
The paths are well laid out and overflowing with palm trees, ficus, and orange trees.
The park can be explored throughout the year. I was lucky enough to walk through it in winter and in summer.
In February, you will be able to admire the orange trees covered in beautiful bright oranges, and in July, you will enjoy the welcome shade of the gigantic trees...