Despite our rather stressful introduction to the park, in getting lost we uncovered so many different parts of the park I had never seen mentioned in other guides! I made it a point to return the next morning! I arrived early in the day, set out to explore every inch of Chapultepec Park. What I discovered was truly one of the most spectacular public parks I had ever seen. Not only is Chapultepec Park unsurpassed in terms of beauty, but it also has a long history that dates back to the 10th century. The park is heralded for its bio-diversity, lush gardens, and home to some of Mexico City’s most iconic landmarks. It is no surprise to learn it won the gold award from the World Urban Parks Association as one of the most beautiful parks in the world!

But it’s not just a tourist destination either; it’s also full of life. Locals come here to cool themselves under the forest canopy and snack on incredible street food. If you’re looking to escape city life and immerse yourself in nature, Chapultepec Park is the place to be!

Guide to Chapultepec Park

1. What to Know Before you Arrive
2. Hours & Access
3. The History of Chapultepec Park
4. Map of Walking Tour
5. Puerta de Leones
6. Monument to the Ninos Heroes
7. Petrogrifo de Moctezuma
8. Ahuehuete "El Sargento"
9. Memorial Squadron 201
10. Cincalco Cavern
11. Audiorama
12. Chapultepec Castle Hill
13. Museo del Caracol
14. Chapultepec Castle
15. Street Food
16. El Lago de Chapultepec
    • The Casa del Lago
17. Librería Porrúa
18. Jardín Botánico del Bosque de Chapultepec
19. Museo Nacional de Antropología
    • Museo de Arte Moderno
20. Zoológico de Chapultepec
21. La Casa de la Bici Bosque de Chapultepec
22. Fuente del Quijote
23. Poets' Causeway
24. Carrusel De Chapultepec
25. Fuente de las Ranas
26. Monumental Fuente de Nezahualcóyotlht

What to Know Before you Arrive

Bosque Chapultapec or Chapultapec Park is enormous. It is twice the size of Central Park, which many people think of as one of the largest parks in the world! So having a guide to follow or knowing what you want to see when you’re there is key. Bosque Chapultapec or Chapultapec Park is actually divided into three sections or “Seccións.” This guide will explore the First section, which is both the oldest portion of the park and contains the most important landmarks.

Key Tips

• As mentioned above, the park is HUGE. Give yourself the entire day if you’re planning on exploring all of the first section.
• Arrive early in the morning, not only to give yourself lots of time to visit but also to avoid the crowds which peak in the afternoon.
• Most of the signage in the park is all in Spanish. Use this guide to help you get the context to understand what you’re seeing. Download the Google Translate app and the Spanish language pack to be able to translte signage with your camera.
• There are no restaurants located inside the park. The only place to eat is at street food stalls, which primarily surround the lake. You can also grab a bite to eat at the Anthropology or Modern Art Museum.
• Chapultepec has a strict no food or beverage policy. That means you can’t even bring in food to eat later in the park. So if you plan on picning, be sure to eat before you enter the castle. They will often search your bags so don’t think you can just hide it.
• Various Museums offer free entry on Sundays. Be sure to check their websites in advance if you’re looking to save some money on entry fees.
• Weekends are by far the busiest time to visit the park. But that is also when most street vendors are out, and the park’s personality shines. Just plan accordingly.

Hours & Access

The park is open from 5 a.m. to 7 p.m Tuesday – Sunday. The First Section of Chapultepec Park is closed on Mondays for maintenance.

To arrive at the proper (and most impressive) entrance to Chapultepec Park, direct your Uber to drop you off in front of the Estela de Luz monument. If you prefer to take the Metro you can take it to Chapultepec Station. From the station’s exit, head north up to Lion’s gate entrance.

The History of Chapultepec Park

Chapultepec Park is situated around Chapultepec Hill, the sacred heart of the city. The Toltecs named the hill “Chapultepec” around the 12 century. The word “Chapultepec” means at the grasshopper hill in the native Nahuatl language of the Toltecs. There is some disagreement among historians whether the name comes from the plethora of grasshoppers that lived in the area or if it was due to the shape of the hill looking like the silhouette of a grasshopper.

At the top of the hill, the Toltecs placed their sacred altar. We know this as there have been remains of this alter excavated at the hill’s summit. The hillside served as a defensive advantage, as it stood looking out of the shores of Lake Texcoco. Despite this advantage, it wouldn’t be along before the Toltecs were overcome.

When the Aztecs conquered the city, they continued to use the hill as a spiritual place. They saw it as a place of power, and it was here that they buried the ashes of their rulers. For this reason, when visiting the park and the palace, we should act very respectfully. Remember you are walking over what was an Aztec graveyard. The various rulers of Mexico City would carve their images onto the eastern side of Chapultepec hill. Thinking this would preserve their memories in stone forever.

The area around the Chapultepec hill was plentiful with freshwater. Monarch Nezahualcoyotl utilized this access to build the first aqueduct that helped direct this freshwater into the city. Nezahualcoyotl loved nature and felt at peace here. He was the first to build a summer palace in the area in 1428. Here he could escape the busy city. Like today, the rich and powerful love escaping countryside mansions.

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Moctezuma II

By the 15th century, the forest was primarily used as a retreat for various Aztec rulers. We have Moctezuma II to thank for so many of the amazing aspects of this park that still exist today. The plentiful trees, plants and waterways around the park were all installed under his watchful eye. Many of the original cypress trees can still be seen today. These are also called “ahuehuete” trees and they mark the ancient outlines of the park. Moctezuma was also the first to build a zoo and arboretum just near the foot of the hill.

One of the most unique aspects of the park you can still visit today is Moctezuma’s Baths. The waters from the aqueducts were channelled into these reservoirs where locals could bathe. Aztecs were a very clean society, with most people bathing at least once a day! There were also several “temazcales” on-site. There were pre-Hispanic saunas and used for ritual cleansing.

The Spanish Invasion

Sadly this period of peace for the Aztecs couldn’t last forever. Here in the forest, the Aztec’s took their last stand against the Spanish in 1521. It was the last stand the Aztec had to save themselves from the eventual conquest. After the land was stolen by the Spanish, Chapultepec Hill and the land around it was given by Cortez over to the Franciscans. The religious order built a temple on the hill. Their attempt to convert the locals over to Christianity by appropriating the Aztec holy site. During this time, the rocks where the Aztec rulers carved their image were destroyed by the Franscian’s. But one stone managed to survive. It depicts Montezuma II’s feathered headdress carrying an omechicahuaztli (a sceptre for rain rituals) in his hand.

Developement of Chapultapec Castle

Chapultepec remained in the hands of the Franciscans for another few hundred years. But in 1785, the church was demolished to make room for a residence for the colonial rulers. This would become Chapultepec Castle. The forest around the castle was to be used as a hunting ground and place for recreation for the upper classes. It was abruptly walled off from the general public. This was such a loss for the people as the sanctuary has been such a meaningful place for hundreds of years.

Even after the Mexican War of Independence, the castle was used as the official residence for the head of state. But happily, the park was opened to the public once more. During the Mexican-American War of 1846, Chapultepec Castle was used as a military academy. It was also used as a political prison. In 1847 it would be the site of another great battle between the Mexican and U.S. troops. During the Second Mexican Empire, the palace transferred hands once. It was given over to the new governor of the city, Maximilian of Habsburg. He transformed it into a truly impressive imperial palace.

Porfirio Díaz Era

Under the rule of the Porfiriato government, the city began to undergo a huge transformation. Porfirio Díaz was obsessed with the idea of turning Mexico City into a European paradise. One of the aspects of his plan involved overhauling the landscape design of the city. He employed José Yves Limantour, Secretary of the Treasury, to revamp the forests around Chapultepec Castle. They installed paved avenues and roads, plazas, fountains, auditoriums and monuments. It was also during this time that large artificial lakes were built.

20th Century

The castle remained in the hands of the government, serving as the presidential residence until 1940. Los Pinos was built at the southwest edge of the park. This new “White House-inspired” neo-classical structure would serve as the new presidential residence and office. Chapultepec Castle was converted into a museum housing relics of the Maximilian era. As well as pieces of history from Mexico’s struggle for independence.

In the 1960s, the park saw its most tremendous modern expansion and construction. The park’s second section was created, and the Pantheon of Dolores was built. The large cemetery a final resting place for the illustrious dead of Mexico’s past. Various modern museums were commissioned. These institutions were a place to show to the locals and the world the cultural heritage of Mexico City. This included the National Museum of Anthropology, the National Gallery of History, the Caracol Museum, and the National Auditorium. There are nine different museums in total located inside the walls of Chapultepec Park.

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Creation of the 3rd Section

The third and final section of the park was created in 1974. The area is primarily a dense forest, that has been declared a Protected Natural Area. In order to combat the growing levels of air pollution, the government developed these protected zones to plant new trees which filter the air. Today, Chapultapec is known as one of the sets of “lungs” which help Mexico City breathe by replenishing oxygen to the city. This part of the park is also a refuge for migratory birds. During the winter, hidden in the trees are birds from Canada the U.S., feeling the cold. But there is also plenty of local wildlife like Mexico’s Cooper hawk, Harris’s hawk, wild ducks, and Vireos, Warblers and Kingfishers.

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Map of Walking Tour

Puerta de Leones

The intricately patterned black iron gates welcome you into Chapultepec Park. But guarding the entrance on either side are these two gigantic lions. This is the great Puerta de Leones or Lion’s Gate of Chapultepec Park. The colossal bronze beasts stand atop granite pedestals, their heads pointing out towards the Paseo de la Reforma. Their eyes keenly open, as if on the lookout for any incoming enemies.

The sculptures were created by French artist Garden and installed here in 1921. They have been greeting friendly visitors ever since. During the big Mexican holidays like Día de Muertos, this gate is often cheerfully decorated with beautiful paper flowers.

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Monument to the Ninos Heroes

Walking through the gates, continue down Avenue Juventud Heroica. The Avenue crosses over the busy Centro Bicentenario highway that you can hear roaring underfoot. At the end of the overpass, you can see the towering columns of the Monument to the Ninos Heroes. As mentioned earlier, Chapultapec Park was the site of the great Mexican American battle of 1847. After being overtaken by the U.S. Army, various cadets who had been defending the palace fled to the inner walls of the castle. Cornered with nowhere to go, six Mexican cadets jumped onto the cliff below. They would rather have died by their own will than be captured or killed by the enemy. Today each one of these six men are honoured within this incredible monument.

The enormous structure was designed by architect Enrique Aragón and sculptor Ernesto Tamariz. Each of the towering six columns features a niche at the base of the pillar. Inside is an urn that contains their ashes. The white columns are capped with the image of the Mexican golden eagle, whose wings reach towards the sky. While the cadets the eagle depicts their divine flight into heaven.

In the centre of the six columns is a large sculpture called the “Altar a la Patria” or Altar to the Homeland. The sculpture depicts a Mexican woman holding the lifeless body of a soldier in one arm. Beside her other arm stands a soldier. He stands tall, seemingly guarding her and the homeland. In honour of those who died guarding her before him.

Petrogrifo de Moctezuma

You’ll find a series of pathways that swirl around the park just beyond the main entrance. Make your way to the enclosure that surrounds the base of the hill. Beyond the fence is a seemingly innocuous rock. This is the Petrogrifo de Moctezuma. These petroglyphs set into the hill’s eastern slope have a series of carvings that you can make out as you look closer. These are the last remaining carvings from the pre-Hispanic rulers. In the top right, you can see the xiuhhuitzolli of Moctezuma II. The xiuhhuitzolli is the turquoise headdress worn by Aztec Mexican royals. The headdress is usually covered in bright blueish-green feathers to symbolize the god Huitzilopochtli. Huitzilopochtli was the god of the sun and the god war. His named means “hummingbird,” which is why the colourful feathers are used in his image.

Ahuehuete “El Sargento”

Continuing around the edge of the hillside, walk along the pathways surrounding the hill. Around the corner is a giant stone memorial, but blocking your initial view of the memorial is a hulking tree trunk. Do not just walk by but take a moment to study the dried-out piece of wood. This is one of the famed Ahuehuete (cypress) trees found inside the park. But this one is extra special. It is called “El Sargento,” as it was planted by Nezahualcoyotl in 1460 on the orders of emperor Moctezuma.

The tree managed to survive for over 500 years, growing up to 40 meters in height. But sadly, it died in 1969. Although these trees are able to live for generations the lack of freshwater, as the ground dried up due to pollution, brought an end to this great tree. A devastating blow to the people of Mexico City. The city created a monument out of the trunk, to preserve what remained for generations to come. It is still a very sacred space for visitors today. And also a warning about pollution and the destruction it can bring.

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Memorial Squadron 201

The enormous stone memorial behind the tree is dedicated to the Mexican 201st Fighter Squadron. This aerial army was initially formed when Mexico came to the aid of the Allies during World War II. During their initial training in Texas, they were nicknamed the “Aztec Eagles,” a name they wore with pride. Despite the historical conflict between Mexico and the USA, they managed to come together in this monumental moment in time. Together, they were able to defeat Japanese troops invading the Philippines. Their Squadron was given credit for keeping 30,000 Japanese troops out of action and destroying enemy-held buildings, vehicles, anti-aircraft guns, and the all-important ammunition depots. The memorial was built to remember the fallen soldiers of the wars as well as the survivors of the military expedition to the Philippines.

Cincalco Cavern

To the left of the memorial is a little path that wraps around the back. Behind here is where you’ll find a little hidden zen garden called the Audiorama. But historically, this area has been one of the most sacred spaces in Mexico City for generations. During the pre-Hispanic period, this place was the entrance to the Cincalco Cavern. The Aztecs believed that these caves were portals between the living and the dead. It was here, many believed, that Tláloc, the god of water, lived.

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In 1162, Huémac, the last Toltec governor, committed suicide after his people were defeated and his city fell. He felt he had failed them and it was here he wished to pass on, submit himself to the will of the gods. Perhaps with his sacrifice, his people would be spared. In modern times, the cave has been sealed off for security reasons. But you can still see the arched entrance that once led inside the hill. The garden is surrounded by an array of wild plants, fruit trees, small rose bushes, and calla lilies.

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Audiorama

In the 1970s, the city decided to revamp the space as a modernized “sacred space” for the residents. It was designed as an outdoor library to read. A series of colourful benches spread out throughout the enclosure provided comfort under the trees. But to enhance the experience, music is pipped into the forest throughout the day through a series of little hidden speakers.

There are different types of music played on different days of the week. On Tuesdays, you get new age, traditional Mexican rhythms on Wednesdays, melodies from Spain, Greece or Brazil on Thursdays, jazz on Fridays, chill out for Saturdays and classical music on Sundays. The Audiorama is open Tuesday to Sunday from 9 am to 4 pm. Please respect the silence requested upon entering this part of the park as this is a place for rest and relaxation.

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Chapultepec Castle Hill

Head back the way you came and make your way to the ramp leading to Chapultapec Castle.

Hours and Admission

You need to buy your admission tickets at the booth at the bottom of the hill. Be sure to do this BEFORE you head up the ramp, which leads to the castle. There is nowhere at the top of the hill to buy tickets. The walk is fairly long and steep, and on a hot day, it would be torturous to have to head all the way back down. We saw dozens of people that had this problem and their dejected faces were so sad. So be sure you don’t make this same mistake. The line for the tickets moves very quickly but if you plan on visiting at the absolute peak of the season you should arrive early to beat the crowds.

Hours: 9 am to 5 pm Tuesday to Sunday. Closed on Mondays.
Admission: 85 pesos (US$4) per person. Tickets are free for children under 13 and seniors over 60 years old. Teachers and students with valid credentials and people with disabilities also can get in free.
Be sure to bring some cash as often the machines are often down and tickets are cash only.

After purchasing your ticket, you need to climb the winding hill that encircles the palace. While the pathway is mostly smooth, for anyone with mobility issues, the incline can be tiring. The walk is especially difficult due to the high elevation in Mexico City. It can be slightly harder to catch your breath. Take it slow; there’s no need to rush. In fact, the walk up the hill provides some incredible views across the park and the city. Make sure you drink plenty of water. Even on what might feel like a cooler day, you still can get dehydrated just from the elevation.

Museo del Caracol

Near the top of the ramp, before arriving at the Castle, you’ll approach the Museo del Caracol. A ‘Caracol’ is a snail, as the museum’s exterior is designed to replicate the shape of a sea snail. Inside, to view the exhibitions within, you descend down a spiral staircase, also mirroring the swirl of a snail’s shell. The windows that line the edge of the staircase are filled with dioramas. Each one tells a story relating to the history of Mexico City. From the end of the viceroyalty to the Constitution of 1917.

As the admission is only 80 pesos (US$4), I think it’s well worth a quick look through. There is something about dioramas that really helps bring the country’s history alive. Even if you can’t understand the narration, the scenes are so expressive that you can really get a sense of what’s happening. I think some people might think the museum is a bit cheap and cheesy but I really enjoy all those dollhouse-like detailed scenes.

Hours: 9 am to 4 pm Tuesday to Sunday
Admission: $80 pesos per person. Tickets are free for children under 13 and seniors over 60 years old. Teachers and students with valid credentials and people with disabilities also can get in free.

Chapultepec Castle

The castle itself is divided into two sections; the Museum of Anthropology on the left side and the Palace (or Alcazar) interiors on the right. The Museum of Anthropology is housed inside the former Military College. The collection is a wonderful way to physically see the history of Mexico City, from the time of the conquest until the 20th century, come alive in front of you. Clothing, paintings, objects and elements of everyday life are all on display. My favourite part of this section of the castle has to be their collection of murals. The expressive Mexican murals bring historical events into three dimensions despite being painted on a two-dimensional surface.

The Alcázar portion of the building is where you’ll find various rooms inside the palace still decored as they could have been in the 19th century. During this period the castle was occupied by emperors Maximiliano and Carlota and thereafter President Porfirio Díaz and his wife Carmen Romero Rubio. It is incredible to see how the spaces change as the hands of ownership change. For a complete guide of the Castle Museum check out our full tour here.

Street Food

After finishing up at the castle, walk back the hill towards Avenue H. Colegio Militar. This road will weave its way through the forest towards the best lookout point across Chapultepec Lake. This avenue is absolutely packed with street vendors! Although there is a larger “food court” beside the lake, I would avoid this area. Perhaps since they have more permanent booths, the food can be left inside and therefore isn’t of the highest quality. But the food vendors that flank the roadways are really delicious. So stick with them! These might not be as filling as the meals on offer in the food court area, but you’re better off with a safe bet.

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Guide to Street Snacks

Below are a few of my favourite street snacks so you can keep your eyes out for these reliably delicious traditional treats.

• Chicharron: deep-fried pigskin doused in chilli sauce and freshly squeezed lime juice. Duritos: Duritos (not to be mixed up with Doritos) are a wheat-based pinwheel-shaped snack topped with hot sauce and lime.
• Dorilocos: If you’re looking for something more like a meal, find your way to the Dorilocos vendor. This dish is made by taking a bag of Doritos and slicing it down the long edge, so it opens like a bowl. Then they top it with Mexican radish, shredded cucumber and carrot and Japanese peanuts. Then, of course, it’s topped with lime juice and hot sauce on top. 
• Papas: freshly made potato chips served with hot sauce and lime.

• Paletas: frozen fruit bars made with fresh and natural ingredients. They are made with either milk or fruit juice base. My favourite has got to the mango and chilli!
• Tamarind Candies: Look for brands like Tama-Roco, Pulparindo or Pelón Pelo Rico. There is also Salsaghetti which is watermelon candy in the shape of spaghetti noodles covered with tamarind sauce. 
• La Molienda: coconut candy bar in the colour of the Mexican flag.
• Vero Mango: mango-flavoured candy covered in chile powder.
• Slaps Lollipop: Mexican fruit roll-ups that taste just like a jolly rancher!
• Mazapanes de la Rosa: A peanut-based sweet
• Pepitoria: crunchie wafers filled with honey or caramel, and decorated with pumpkin seeds.

El Lago de Chapultepec

After all those snacks, a great way to burn off some calories is with a pedal around El Lago de Chapultepec. This man-made lake is one of the most picturesque places to take a little blue paddle boat and take in the scenery. The views from the middle of the lake are fantastic and even look out at the Colonia Polanco. The boats cost 60 pesos/hour (around the U.S. $3). Normally, such a touristy activity would price gouge visitors but not here in the park. The locals enjoy a ride as much as the tourists, so prices are kept low to ensure everyone can enjoy a day out!

The Casa del Lago

While paddling on the Lake, you have a fantastic view of the Casa del Lago, the Chapultapec Lake House. The house was built in the 1900s as President Porfirio Diaz‘s summer mansion. Today it serves as the UNAM (Mexico’s National Autonomous University) Chapultapec cultural center.

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Librería Porrúa

If you don’t feel like grabbing a bite to eat from the street vendors, you can head up to the Librería Porrúa. This charming bookstore library is located just on the edge of Chapultepec Park. In addition to a wonderful selection of books, there is a coffee shop inside. You’ll find here a super delicious selection of coffee, snacks, paninis, and more. Plus if it’s a really hot day, its a lovely spot to come and cool off.

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Jardín Botánico del Bosque de Chapultepec

From here, lets pop into the Jardín Botánico del Bosque de Chapultepec. While the roped off garden beds and greenhouse might feel modern, these nurseys have been here since the days of Moctezuma. When the Spanish first arrived in Mexico they were amazed by these royal gardens they saw. So much so that they would write home about the incredible plants they found.

The Aztecs had some of the most diverse and exotic gardens. They were filled with medicinal plants for healing wounds. Herbs for cooking as well as fragrant flowers just there for their beauty.

The Botanical gardens we find here today were inaugurated in 2006 over a 5-hectare protected area. Covering the land area are over 400 different plants and trees. The garden is divided into different themes based on the different kind of plants. There are the pollinators, the edible plants, the succulents and the wetland plants. Plus 14 different species of wild dahlias, cacti and agave.

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Orquideario Bosque de Chapultepec

Towards the back of the Botanical Garden you’ll find the glimmering stained glass rooftop that leads you inside the Orquideario Bosque de Chapultepec. This 500-square-meter greenhouse was built in the 1940s and contains stunning examples of Mexican art deco design. The huge barrel domed ceiling runs the entire length of the greenhouse.

The vibrant Aztec inspired stained glass design casting beautiful rainbows of light down on the flower and ferms below. Inside the humid glasshouse, you can find their precious collection of orchid. s is maintained.

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Botanical Garden Open: 9 am to 6 pm Tuesday to Sunday | Orchid Garden Open: 9 am to 3 pm

Museo Nacional de Antropología

For the rest of the afternoon, there are a few different museums that you can explore. If you’ve never been to Mexico, let alone Mexico City before, the Museo Nacional de Antropología is a wonderful place to learn more about the country’s history. The museum contains significant archaeological and anthropological artifacts from Mexico’s pre-Columbian heritage. It is considered a national treasure and a symbol of Mexico’s identity.

Stone of the Sun

One of the most significant pieces of the collection is the Stone of the Sun or the Aztec calendar stone. This sizeable circular stone carving weighs 24,590 kg and is over 141 inches wide! It dates back to approximate the beginning of the 16th century. The Stone of the Sun was so precious to the people of Tenochtitlan that after the Spanish invaded, they buried the stone under the Zocalo. In the hopes that hiding it there would keep it safe.

The Stone was only discovered in 1790 when repairs were required under the new Mexico City Cathedral. After the discovery, the church actually mounted the stone on the building’s exterior. There it remained for almost a hundred years. Perhaps as a way to convince unconverted Mexicans over to the Christianity. Finally, in 1885, it was moved to the new Archaeological Museum inside the El Chopo Musuem in Colonia Santa María la Ribera. It remained there until the opening of this museum.

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Architecture of Museo Nacional de Antropología

If you only see the design of the building from the front facade you might think the building is rather simple and austere. The white bricked facade is devoid of any decoration save for the central medallion featuring a stone carving of the eagle of Mexico City with a serpent in its mouth. But to see the real architectural treasure you need to head inside towards the back courtyard. The building was designed in 1964 by Pedro Ramírez Vázquez, Jorge Campuzano, and Rafael Mijares Alcérreca. The courtyard features a huge concrete umbrella supported by a single slender pillar (known as “el paraguas,” Spanish for “the umbrella”). Water pours down from the umbrella into the vast square pond below. It’s one of the most impressive structures I’ve ever seen and the sound of the rain falling is hypnostizing.

Open: 10 am to 5 pm Tuesday to Saturday, Closed Mondays
Admission: Permanent exhibition $85 pesos (US $4)
To use a video camera, you must get a permit and pay a fee of $45 pesos.

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Museo de Arte Moderno

Right beside the Botanical Gardens is the Museo de Arte Moderno. The Museum of Modern art contains the largest collections of Mexican art from the 20th century. The museum was built in 1963 under the guise of architect and designer Pedro Ramírez Vázquez and Rafael Mijares. Even without all the artwork, this museum is a wonder to explore.

It’s collection features work from José Chávez Morado, David Alfaro Siqueiros, José Clemente Orozco and Remedios Varo. But most famously, it owns a few precious paintings by Frida Kahlo. Frida Kahlo produced a relatively small oeuvre, and getting to see one of her paintings in real life is an exceptional experience. Her surrealist self-portrait ‘Las dos Fridas‘ is one of her most impactful pieces. This piece was painted shortly after her divorce from fellow Mexican artist Diego Rivera. It was a means for her to process the depression and loneliness she experience after the divorce.

Open: 11 am to 5 pm Tuesday to Saturday, Closed Mondays
Admission: $65 pesos (US $3)

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Zoológico de Chapultepec

If you’re travelling with children, instead of a museum, a visit to the Zoológico de Chapultepec is a great alternative. While adults might give it a miss (as there aren’t really any uniquely “Mexico-City” aspects to the zoo) it’s always a hit with kids. Plus, admission is free for everyone! This is a huge bonus since activities with kids can get really expensive. The only part of the zoo that requires an entry fee is the butterfly house (US$3.50). There are many classic zoo animals to see here. Everything from lions, rhinos, monkeys, tigers, and, most famously, their great Chinese Panda .

But if you’re going to visit, my best advice is to be sure to see the Xoloitzcuintle. The Xoloitzcuintle is a hairless dog native to Mexico. The name ‘Xoloitzcuintle‘ is from the Nahuatl languagee and is derived from the word ‘Xolotl’ who was the god of fire and lightning. ‘Itzcuīntli‘ was the Nahuatl word for “dog,” for it basically translates to “God’s dog.”

Open: 9 am to 4:30 pm Tuesday to Sunday
Admission is free

La Casa de la Bici Bosque de Chapultepec

If museums aren’t your thing, a wonderful way to explore the rest of the park is by bike. The park’s winding back routes and pathways are sprawling! To see it all, the best way is to hop on a bike. You can pick up a rental bike from the central Casa de la Bici in the southwest corner of the park. This place rents out bikes for 70 pesos per hour (the U.S. $3.30) or 100 pesos (the U.S. $4.80) for two hours. You are required to leave a valid photo I.D. with them to ensure you return with the bike. Don’t leave anything important like your passport, but a driver’s licence or even a health card will be OK. Most of the bikes have adorable white baskets on the front. Perfect for storing your treats or backpacks so you can bike around unimpeded.

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Fuente del Quijote

Whether you’re cruising around on the bike or just walking on foot, here are a few other stops you might want to make around the park. Just north of the bike rental house is the Fuente del Quijote. A ‘Fuente‘ is the Spanish word for fountain. The ‘Fountain of Don Quixote‘ dates back to 1921 and it is one of the most incredible fountains in the entire park. The rather small central fountain with four central mermaids is surrounded by four stone benches covered in handpainted tiles. Each of the hundreds of tiles features detailed images from the book Don Quixote de la Mancha by Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra. By looking at each one you could easily piece together the entire story.

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Restoration of the Fountain

Sadly, in 2015 the fountain was severely vandalized. Two statues of famous painter Salvador Dalí and Mexican master Diego Rivera were both stolen, never to be seen since. Many of the tiles were also taken or partially destroyed. The figures actually have a history of thievery. They were first made by Spanish sculptor Miguel Alessio Robles by stolen in 1974. So they were replaced by another set made by José María Fernández Urbina. Unfortunately, these would be sentenced to the same fate.

But thanks to public donations, the entire fountain is on its way to looking brand new once more! You can even make a donation yourself! A great way to support the park and preserve it for generations to come. Donations can be as little as 200 pesos (US$10), and it really goes a long way ! While you can’t entre the enclosure while restoring are underway, you can peek inside to get a sneak peek at once was. Plus you can even see the artists at work throughout the week, hard at work hand painting tiles.

Poets’ Causeway

Off to the east from the Fuente del Quijote is the Calzada De la Poetas or Poets’ Causeway. Along this stretch of the pathway are a series of busts of famous poets from the 19th and 20th centuries. The statues include Doña Inés de Asbaje y Ramírez de Santillana, better known as Sor Juana Inés de la Cruz OSH. Doña Inés was a Mexican writer, philosopher, composer and poet of the Baroque period. And to top it all off she was even a Hieronymite nun. Salvador Díaz Mirón was a Mexican poet known for his passionate, romantic style, influenced by Lord Byron and Victor Hugo. Manuel José Othón was a Mexican poet, playwright, and politician. One of his most famous works is Idilio Salvaje, considered one of the most representative poems of Mexico. You can read a part of this poem on the small plaque beside his bust.

Carrusel De Chapultepec

Through the forest, to the west of the park, is the hidden away Carrusel De Chapultepec. Although this is meant for kids, I’m a sucker for a beautiful carousel. And this one is no exception. The amazing double-decker Carrusel De Chapultepec is a relatively new addition to the park. It was moved here in 2018 from its original location in Alameda Central. But its history is much older. Before its life in Mexico City, the carousel was once in Chicago but first made in Venice! Look up along the ceiling and roof that encircles the carousel. There, you can see intricately painted vignettes featuring scenes from life in Venice. An automatic piano plays music as the carousel spins, with over 1,800 spotlights twinkling as it turns round and round.

Open: Tuesday to Sunday.
Admission: $18 pesos (less than US$1) to ride. Adults can sit in the wooden benches on the first level.

Fuente de las Ranas

At the intersection of Avenue H. Colegio Militar and Calz. Mahatma Gandhi is the Fuente de las Ranas. The Fuente de las Ranas or Fountain of the Frogs is an exact replica of a fountain of the same name in Seville. When Spanish lawyer Miguel Alessio Robles was named the Mexican minister in 1921, he ordered the fountain to be made. He wanted to bring to Mexico City a piece of his home country.

The fountain was first installed at the park entrance but has since been moved towards the back of the park. The fountain is covered in beautiful Sevillian tiles. Surrounding the outer edge is a series of eight rotund golden painted frogs. Their open mouths spraying water towards the bronze duck and tortoise who sit in the centre of the fountain. The duck sits atop the turquoise with its mouth pointing upwards, shooting water from its mouth into the air. It’s such a playful fountain and a wonderful addition to the park. It’s these little gems that make wandering the pathways so endearing.

Monumental Fuente de Nezahualcóyotlht

Opposite the Fuente de las Ranas is the entrance to best fountain of them all; the Monumental Fuente de Nezahualcóyotl. Nezahualcóyotl is a name we’ve heard before as his impact in the history book, as well as in Chapultepec park was immense! Nezahualcóyotl was the monarch of the city-state of Texcoco in ancient Mexico from 1429 to 1472. He was known as a great poet in addition to a fantastic scholar and wonderful architect. His name means the “fasting coyote,” as fasting was considered a form of sacrifice. Some monarchs would do to attempt to appease the gods and aid their people. If you look for one of the old Mexican 100 peso bill you can see his face. Along with his portrait is one of his most cherished poems. It goes;

I love the song of the mockingbird,
Bird of four hundred voices,
I love the colour of the jadestone,
And the intoxicating scent of flowers,
But more than all, I love my brother, man.

Nezahualcóyotl

Nezahualcóyotl’s Dam

The Monumental Fuente de Nezahualcóyotl is by far the largest of all the fountains in the park. The fountain begins to emerge from the edge of the forest, and covers 1,250 square meters. Flowing like a vein up to the central square and domineering statue at the end of the wall-like fountain. It was made by sculptor Luis Ortiz Monasterio in 1956. The shape of the fountain was inspired by Nezahualcóyotl’s Dam. Nezahualcóyotl was instructed by Moctezuma I to construct a dam over 16 km long. The dam was to be used to defend against the flood waters which plagued the ancient Tenochtitlan (Mexico city). Nezahualcóyotl was also responsible for the aqueducts in Chapultepec forest that supplied Tenochtitlan with safe drinking water. This work earned him the reputation of the best architect in the Americas.

Monasterio’s fountain-like dam was inspired by the pre-hispanic architectural styles of the 15th century. Entering this area, you are greeted by a fantastic carving of a giant coyote. The coyote has his mouth open wide, a menacing smile, with water gushing forth. Water also flows out of the hundreds of carved medallions along the top of the wall. Once one carved from black stone from Xaltocan.

Statue and Life Reliefs of Nezahualcóyotl

Along the facade of the fountain you’ll find eight large bas reliefs. Each one depicts a scene from the life of Nezahualcóyotl. The first relief shows Nezahualcóyotl’s birth, the death of his father, his battles for the territory, the arrival of water to Chapultepec and his death in 1472.

The sculpture in the centre of the square is of Nezahualcóyotl himself, standing nine meters tall. Watching over his beloved park forever. Behind him is a wall made of volcanic stones with three symbols emblazoned up the facade. Each of the symbols refers to the three tribes of indigenous peoples that inhabited the Valley of Mexico; the Texcoco, Tenochitlán and Tlacopan. It is a wonderful place to end the tour, to remember that this space was one a sacred site for the indigenous peoples and we are lucky to still be able to enjoy this green oasis today.

Chapultepec Park is truly a must-visit if you’re in Mexico City. It’s not only the perfect place to enjoy a peaceful day out, but also where you can learn a lot about Mexican culture and history. Make the effort to carve out the time to really appreciate the beauty of this sprawling natural sanctum.

Happy Travels, Adventurers!

The post Ultimate Guide to Chapultepec Park: Historical and Cultural Heart of Mexico City first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.

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Location & Access

Letna Park is located on the Letna Hill, just above the Vlatava River’s embankments on the northern edges of the city.  The best way to reach the park is on foot. From the Old Town, head along Mikulášská, over Mánes Bridge, north along Pod Bruskou to our first stop on the tour. The walk is a straightforward 20-minutes and gives you some beautiful views along the way. You can also take the tram to Chotkovy sady station on either lines 2 or 18. To check the most updated timetables, check out this website.

History

The word “leten” from which the park gets its name means “summer camp.” Ever since the middle ages, people would gather from nearby military camps to relax in the natural vineyards and gardens once located here. The land was developed in the 19th century into a recreation area for the citizens of Prague. During the Velvet Revolution, the park found itself as the meeting point for over 750,000 protestors, who rallied against the communist government. 

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How Long to Spend Here

Walking across the park from end to end takes about 30 minutes, but since there are so many little places to stop and explore along the way, I’d advise scheduling a few hours to explore. You’ll find yourself swept away by the natural oasis which greets you here, and feeling rushed while in such a tranquil place just feels wrong.

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The Kramář’s Villa

Start your tour of the park at the western edge, near Kramář’s Villa. This is the official residence of the Prime Minister of the Czech Republic. While the building was built in 1914, it is interesting to see how the structure resembles the White House but with a distinctively Czech spin!

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Hanau Pavilion

One of the main reasons to make the trek out to this park is to see the Hanau pavilion. This building on the edge of the park looks like a minature fairytale castle. The pavilion is made to resemble a neo-baroque palace complete with fantastical ironwork, tall turrets, lanterns, dormer windows and more! Letna Park was built in 1891 during Prague’s first Global General Exhibition, or World’s Fair. The Hanau pavilion was donated by the Prince of Hanau to show off the works of the Hanau’s Metalworks Company’ from Komárov. Today, the pavilion is a beautiful restaurant where people can dine inside a stunning interior. Once you are finished eating head outside and enjoy the pavillion’s views over the city of Prague.

Statues

Throughout the park, you’ll find various statues or art installations dotted around. Although the park isn’t by any means one of the most manicured and artful gardens in the city, there are still these elements of decoration, which make exploring it all the more interesting.

Lookout Point

Walk eastward, along the southern edge of the park, and you will come upon one of the most incredible views over the Vltava River and the city of Prague. The views you get from this park are truly spectacular as its located at a higher vantage point than when inside the city itself.

Prague Metronome 

Rising up from out of the hillside, you’ll see a massive mountain of stones, which holds up a supersized metronome. Despite its magnified size, the metronome itself doesn’t appear large enough to require such a hefty stone base. And this is because it wasn’t the original occupier of this giant stone plinth.

In 1955, a massive monument to Joseph Stalin was erected here when the Czech Republic found itself under the Soviet Empire’s control. The statue was enormous and dominated the park’s skyline, with Stalin’s face staring down at the city below. Stalin’s imposing figure weighed 17,000 tonnes and required 235 granite blocks to support the weight. It ended up costing the city 140 million crowns! At the time of its construction, it was the largest group sculpture in Europe. The statue was destroyed in 1962 and was replaced with the Prague Metronome.

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About the Metronome

The metronome is 23-meters tall and was built in 1991 to mark the 100th anniversary of the General Czechoslovak Exhibition of 1891. The metronome was constructed with a kinetic mechanism, and although it doesn’t appear to move continuously, it still does works. Below the metronome is a plaque which reads, “In time, all thing pass...’. This is meant as a reminder to the people of Prague who lived under Stalin’s puritanical rule that although the memory of that dark time may still be there, time passes and things change, hopefully for the better.

Over the years, the area behind the metronome has turned into a skateboarding park, and young people from all over the city come to skate, drink and meet up with their friends. Many parts of the stone wall have been painted with graffiti over time, although this seems in keeping with the spirit of rebellion of the park.

Cukrárna Alchymista

If you’re looking for one of the most charming places to get a bite to eat, head just outside the park over to Cukrárna Alchymista. This cafe feels like dining inside a cozy cottage in the middle of the city. The food on offer like being served a home-cooked meal by your grandma. The restaurant specializes in some decadent desserts. The best place to enjoy them is out in the backyard garden, under the lush greenery.

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Letna Park Carousel

Heading back into the park, walk down to the Letná Carousel or Letenský kolotoč. This is Europe’s oldest floored-carousel, built-in 1892. But today, it remains boarded up as the mechanisms have long since fallen out of order, and it requires a significant amount of repairs to get up and running. The horses used inside the carousel were given real horse hair hides and manes, making them almost eerily lifelike! The carousel was operated by a hand crank and was initially located in Vinohrady. Although the carousel has been boarded up, the beautiful building it is housed is still stunning to look at as this renovation is the first of many in its restoration.

Letná Mansion

Steps from the carousel, you’ll find the Letná Mansion. This grand chateau is located in the area where Prague’s old church vineyards would have been discovered. In 1891 the neo-renaissance building was constructed to house a restaurant for visitors to enjoy refreshments while wandering the peaceful orchards. Even hundreds of years ago, visitors were coming here to escape the city.

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Letná Beer Garden

By far, the most popular sport in the park is the vast outdoor Letná Beer Garden. The simple rows of communal tables are located under the trees right along the park’s edge, providing guests with a panoramic view of the city below. Locals of all ages, and a few knowing tourists, gather in the beer gardens throughout the year, joyfully filling the park with the sound of laughter and merry conversation.

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Local Czech beer on draft will run you merely $3 USD, so you can really get a lot for a little here. There is also a small bistro nearby where you can sample traditional Czech food along with your beer!

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Bruselský Pavilion

The easternmost point in the park is dominated by the modernist Bruselský Pavilion. This pavilion was designed in 1958 and made famous by its appearance at EXPO 58 in Brussels. After the exposition in Brussels, it was brought here to Letná park. The architects F. Cubr, J. Hrubý and Z. Pokorný designed the building to be modular. It could be erected and dismantled as required. The glass and steel materials used in its creation were a popular aesthetic of the time. Despite being over 70 years old, it looks like it was plucked from the future. The building ended up winning the Grand Prize for the best pavilion in 1958.

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Čech Bridge

To finish the tour, let’s head to the Čech Bridge. This spectacular art nouveau bridge, built-in 1905, connects Holešovice and the Old Town. Walking down from the park, you are lead towards the most grandiose set of stairs, usually covered in graffiti. On the other side of the road are a series of angels atop two tall columns, beaconing you towards them. These sculptures were made by sculptors Klusáček, Wurzel, Popp and Amort. These designers were passionate about creating the bridge with strong aesthetics, and today it is the only Art Nouveau style bridge in the Czech Republic.

I love the view you get crossing this bridge. You have both the Old Town and Lesser Quarter spread out in front of you to your right. River cruise boats float up and down the river here, their residence sticking their heads out the window to get their first look at the city. As you continue walking, you can see Prague Castle begin to poke its head out above the trees. This is a great spot to end the tour while you stand and admire the path you just took to get here.

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While you might not find this park on many top ten lists, it’s a great way to explore one of the more ubiquitous parts of the city which isn’t just there for the tourists!

Happy Travels, Adventurers

The post How to Escape the Crowds in Prague, a Guide to Letna Park first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.

Guide to Park Güell

1. Access
2. Opening Hours
3. Tickets
4. History
5. TIPS
6. Entrances
7. Plaça de la Natura
8. Laundry Room Portico
9. Portico of the Washerwoman
10. The Ramp and Casa Larrard
11. Central Entrance 
12. The Lodges
13. Escalera Monumental or Dragon Staircase
14. Dragon Fountain
15. Hypostyle Room
16. Austria Garden
17. Gaudí House Museum
18. Public Area
19. La Casa Trias
20. Turó de Les Tres Creus

Access

Although Park Güell is a bit of trek from the centre of the city you’ll be more than rewarded for your efforts. The best way to get to the Park is by taking the Metro. Get on the Green line (L3) and ride it to Vallarta station. From here you have about a 15-minute walk up a steep hill to reach the park entrance. Vallarta station is the preferred access point since parts of the hillside here have an escalator to help you up the hill. Very useful if you’re travelling with mobility issues. The climb is pretty steep and if you’re visiting during the heat of the summer, remember to bring some water!

You can also take bus #24 or #32 which will drop you off right by the park’s front gates but tends to run on a more limited schedule than the metro. The Bus Turística also stop near the park if you already have a pass. 

Opening Hours

Park Güell is one of the most popular destinations in Barcelona so it’s advisable to buy your tickets in advance. The best time of the day to arrive is early in the morning on a weekday. This time of the day is not only the least busy, but you’ll avoid that midday heat.

The park is open:

12 February to 26 March 2022: 9:30 AM to 6 PM
27 March to 29 October 2022: 9:30 AM to 7:30 PM
30 October 2022 to 31 December 2022: 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM

Tickets

You can easily buy tickets online before arriving. Timed Entry Tickets for Adults cost 10€. Children aged 7 to 12, as well as adults over 65, get reduced prices. Children aged 6 and below can enter for free. For these timed entry tickets, you select the hour at which you want to enter the park. You must enter within 30 minutes of the selected slot time. You can buy tickets up to three months in advance. If you’re visiting during peak season you should buy them as soon as possible since they’re likely to sell out. Even with the timed entry tickets, you will still need to get in line and wait to enter. If you are visiting at peak season I would advise arriving at least 30 minutes prior to your entry time as the line can take a while.

There is also an option to buy Guided Tour with Skip-the-Line Access tickets. These cost 23€ per/person but allow you to skip the line entry into Park Güell. You’ll also get a tour with an expert local guide, and learn about the history and details of Gaudi’s masterpiece. But if you’d prefer to save the 13 euros you can simply use this guide!

History

Barcelona’s Park Güell is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most impressive designs by famed architect Antoni Gaudi. Gaudi along with Spanish entrepreneur Eusebi Güell had a vision for a highly stylized housing community for Barcelona’s elite. In 1900, Güell bought immense expanses of farmland in the north of the city. These farmlands would eventually be converted into Park Güell.

Gaudi designed a winning plan for 60 townhouses. They were all connected by naturalist viaducts, with a large central square for festivals. He added a market area and fabulous landscaping all around which highlighted the already stunning environment of Catalonia. But in 1914, after only two of the 60 planned houses were built, the project was shut down. There was a huge lack of interest and funding from the public – which is unimaginable now! Despite the public’s disinterest, the city itself saw the beauty and potential of such a large usable public space. And so the municipality bought the land in 1922 and transformed it into a public park.

Throughout the park, you can see Gaudi’s didactic forms. He wanted to use symbolism to help restore the values of Christianity and Catalanism.

TIPS

There is only one cafeteria inside the park and prices are pretty outrageous. Also, the food isn’t very good either. The best thing to do is bring some food with you for a picnic. You can eat here looking out at one of the best views in the city. Be sure to wear lots of sunscreens! Although there is some shade most of the park is fully open to the sunshine. Lastly, when exploring the parts of the park outside the admission zone, be careful of pickpockets. Even inside pickpockets pay admission to take advantage of unsuspecting tourists. Just keep your wits about you and make sure your bags aren’t hanging open. 

Entrances

There are three main entrances to Park Güell. The most popular is the one along Carrer d’Olot. Despite the Carrer d’Olot being the most iconic view of the park, the best entrance is the Plaça de la Natura. The entry is much less busy throughout the day. Plus it gives you access to the incredible Nature Square viewpoint first thing in the morning. This is a great lookout spot to see the sunrise peeking up above the ocean.

Plaça de la Natura

From the moment you step into the park, you will be overwhelmed by Gaudi’s iconic style. Gaudi was inspired by the squares and theatres of ancient Greece and wanted to create a similar space for the people of Barcelona. This is the Plaça de la Natura or Nature Square. It was here that over the years many plays, festivals and events have taken place. The square is half-built into the rocks of the hillside itself and is supported by the hypostyle room below. The square seems to reach out towards the ocean as if one could simply walk right out and touch it.

Surrounding the south side of the square is a balustrade called the “Serpentine Bench“. The bench is meant to resemble the shape of a swimming sea serpent. The curves create small areas for seating. This bench is thought to many in the art community as one of the first examples of surrealism in architecture. It is covered in hundreds of tile mosaics. The tile is meant to look like the scales of the serpent but also creates a fantastical rainbow-like effect across the skyline.

Trencadís

These mosaics were a creation of both Gaudi and his collaborator Josep Maria Jujol. Both of whom helped develop Trencadís. Trencadís is a style of mosaic created using pieces of old tile, glass, buttons, shells and broken chinaware. They are then cemented together to create designs, patterns, and even images. The term Trencadís means “chopped” and was a method both for aesthetic purposes and to help recycle old materials. These previously thought of as useless items are given a new and beautiful life!

The columns supporting the upper terrace along the north side of the square are designed to look like palm trees. But they are made of brick and stone. These are set in between actually palm trees, furthering the aesthetic of the natural environment and blending in with Gaudi’s architecture.

Laundry Room Portico

Walking west from Nature Square, you head down a small staircase into the Laundry Room Portico. The Laundry Room Portico is another great example of how Gaudi blended the natural environment into his designs. These passages were meant to connect the potential houses to each other. But by doing it this way the pathways didn’t stand out and were almost camouflaged into the hillside. Walking under the porticos is like taking a breath of fresh air in the heat of the summer. The shade and cool earth provide natural air conditioning even in the middle of the afternoon.

Portico of the Washerwoman

As you walk under the rocky porticos, you’ll come upon a statue resembling a woman with a basket of laundry on her head. This is the Washerwoman. Gaudi was inspired by classical Caryatids that adorn Greek temples. A Caryatid is an architectural column which takes the form of a standing female figure. More of these perhaps were designed but this is the only one which was actually constructed.

The Ramp and Casa Larrard

Past the statue of the Washerwoman, you will round the corner into the famous double-galleried hairpin ramp. The ramp leads down to the Casa Larrard. Casa Larrard was once the family residence of the Guell family but has been since turned into a municipal school.

Casa Larrard was the first project Gaudi worked on for Guell. The building was an old mansion that Gaudi renovated for Guell in 1907, but much of the old Spanish architecture still is very prominently on display. The brilliant red brick is a pop of colour amongst the green trees and sandstone arcades. The best part is the intricate alternating coloured brickworks which create stunning patterns on the outside of the building.

Central Entrance 

As you continue around the pathway in front of the Casa Larrad, you now come upon the “official” entrance to the park. The blooming black iron gates open up into the park. The theatrics here were used by Gaudi to denote a separation between the mundane, grey city into the dream-like compositions of the park. He wanted the Park Güell to feel like a touch of the divine. A paradise or Eden here on earth.

The outer walls of the park as covered in these enormous medallions with the words “Park” and “Guell” emblazoned upon them in the same mosaic style as within.

The Lodges

The two large buildings flanking the entrance are entirely organic in their designs. Like they simply grew out of the earth. Gaudi thought of them as images from the fairytale Hansel and Gretel, like they were made of gingerbread and topped with bright white icing.

The administration lodge, while small has two floors (one of which now contains the gift shop) and a rooftop terrace. The roof is topped with a large gable crowed with a four-armed cross which has become synonymous with Gaudi’s work.

The caretaker’s lodge on the right is decorated with upside-down coffee cups along the exterior. It is rumoured that while trying to give up caffeine, Gaudi was consumed with thoughts of coffee and even began to weave them into his designs, the cravings were so powerful.

Escalera Monumental or Dragon Staircase

One of the most photographed parts of the park is the quintessential Dragon Staircase or Escalera Monumental. Four sets of staircases lead you into the Hypostyle Room, a beautiful backdrop behind the stunning staircase. 

As you walk toward the stairs, take a moment to admire the crenellated walls. The organic forms along the walls are meant to represent the idea of the geographical magnitude of Catalonia.

On either side of the staircases, there are benches for shade decorated with some of the most stunning pieces of tile work from the park. Each of the designs is so different and seems to come from all different periods of art history. I love thinking about how they found each of these pieces and the care that was taken in ensuring each piece complimented the next.

As you walk up the first staircase, you pass the first fountain. Although it might look like a garden, look closely to see trunks and stalactites which creates layers for the water to falls upon.

Standing on the first landing, you can view the second fountain. The head of a snake, burst from a mosaic crest. The outer blue circle represents the world and within in a small central crest you can see the Catalan flag.

Dragon Fountain

The second landing is the best place to see the famed Dragon Fountain. The dragon is covered in trecadis. Gaudi is said to have created the shape of the dragon by jumping up and down on a mesh wireframe before he was satisfied with the way the dragon seemed to melt right into the staircase fountain. Gaudi was so inspired by Greek mythology and the dragon is no exception. This is thought to be “Python”, who in Greek mythology is a dragon, who lives at the centre of the earth, and protects the temple of Delphi. Here we have our own dragon created by Guadi, to help protect the people of Catalonia and any visitor to the park.

Upon the last landing, you can sit on the Odeon bench. This bench is designed to provide shade in the summer, sun in the winter and protects visitors from the wind. Each of the benches are surrounded with dark green tiles and beautiful golden flowers tiles. It feels more like a thrown than a park bench.

Hypostyle Room

Moving from the staircase into the Hypostyle Room, you are immediately hit with a cool breeze. This large open space was created as a covered marketplace for the potential residences of the community and is still used today as a marketplace for the entirety of Barcelona. 

Hypostyle means a room which has a roof supported by pillars, typically in several rows. In this case, it is supported by 86 Doric columns which hold up a brilliant white domed ceiling. Gaudi was inspired by the ancient Greek temples and loved the appearance of the repetitive doric columns as they resembled the appearance of a large forest.

Amongst the white tiles on the domed ceiling are colourful circular rosettes. The larger rosettes represent the four seasons and the smaller ones are meant to be versions of the sun and the moon. Take a moment to study each of them and see if you can identify each season. They are more abstract and take some imagination to interpret.

Along the outer cornices of the marketplace, there are various gargoyles peeking their heads out. These act not only as decoration but also function as an overflow for the rainwater from above.

Austria Garden

Exiting the marketplace to the right, you exit into the Austria Garden. When the park was given over to the city in 1922, this area was transformed into a municipal plant nursery. The name is because in 1977 so many trees were donated from Austria and are the reason this part of the park’s landscape feels so different than the rest of the environment. As can be seen below the image of a fir tree popping its head out among tropical palm trees.

You can often see many green parrots flying amongst the greenery. The flowers are always blooming throughout the gardens. Bright pink bougainvillea, brilliant red Hibiscus Flowers, periwinkle Apocynaceae and even purple forget-me-nots are just some of the flowers you will see as you walk up and down the garden pathways.

Gaudí House Museum

As you continue walking throughout the gardens, you’ll come to the Gaudí House Museum. Gaudi lived in this home from 1906 to 1925. It was designed by Francesc d’Assís Berenguer I Mestres, not Gaudi himself. You can visit the interior of the house for five euros. Inside, there are various pieces of Gaudi’s furniture designs and some of his models for future buildings inside. But overall I’d save your money for something else. You can still walk around the exterior of the house and take in all its glory. While viewing it you can think about how Gaudi would have spent his time while living here. Using the gardens around here as inspiration for his future designs.

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Public Area

Exit along the north-east exit to enter the public area of the park. From here you can walk across many of the park’s different viaducts. The viaducts were created to give residents easy access to flowing, fresh water as well as to create remarkable pathways which connect all the areas of the park together.

The rocks which were extracted from the site to create even land for construction were reused here to create these uneven, natural passageways. Sizeable oval plant pots can be found throughout the path. Inside are agave plants which thrive in these dry climates but create a lush tropical environment.

La Casa Trias

Future up the hillside you can see the La Casa Trias. The Casa Trias was designed by architect Juli Batllevell in 1905. These are additional sample houses designs for what was supposed to become the gated community.

Turó de Les Tres Creus

Walking across the very top of the park, you have one of the most incredible views of the city. As you walk from the east side to the west side, you will come across the Turó de Les Tres Creus. This is the highest part of the park. It was here that Gaudi wanted to build a great chapel. When they found prehistoric remains here, it became clear that they could not excavate the earth. So instead, Gaudi built a monument atop the hill, which resembled the prehistoric caves found throughout Spain. Atop the monuments are three crosses, pointing to the cardinal directional points.

This is one of the best places to end the tour. The view is stunning and looks across the entirety of Gaudi’s stunning vision for heaven on earth. Walking through this park, you really do start to live inside that vision Gaudi painted for you. His dreamlike creations do make you feel like you’re wandering somewhere outside this earth. Somewhere you have only ever seen in dreams. I absolutely loved my time here and hope you find time to visit the park and live out the dream for yourself!

The post The ULTIMATE Guide to Park Güell Barcelona [UPDATED 2022] first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.