Shade under ancient trees
Because there are times when the shadows become a precious refuge that everyone seeks. To read, walk or meditate outdoors without your skin suffering disastrous consequences , we present some of the most special shades for the days in which the star king bathes Madrid with all his might.
1. EL CAPRICHO PARK
That Parque de El Capricho is one of the most magical places in Madrid is something you have already heard many times. But beyond being an idyllic place for a romantic date, El Capricho Park hides endless shadows in which to enjoy some time outdoors without leaving Madrid . Under its centuries-old trees or under the shade thrown by the columns of the Temple of Bacchus the pages of a good book or a simple chat with a friend will gain considerably in quality.
two. MONUMENT TO ALFONSO XII IN THE RETIRO
Two Felipes ago, that is, with Felipe IV, the mythical Parque del Retiro was born. A few years later (almost 300, to be exact) the monument to Alfonso XII was inaugurated on the banks of the pond. Always populated by tourists and cats, the colonnade that makes up the monument is one of the most interesting places to take refuge of the intense Madrid sun in summer, where boredom will never be an option contemplating the adventures of the intrepid boatmen on the pond.
A beautiful place to shelter from the sun
3. COLD STOVE IN JUAN CARLOS I PARK
Not many people know that Madrid has a cold stove located in Parque Juan Carlos I. Not many people know what a cold stove is either, but despite its name, this construction has little to do with any household appliance. The concrete and glass construction acts as a natural greenhouse , without energy input, and contains twelve spaces inside, among which we can find an aquatic plant area or a Japanese garden yes Its exterior walls covered with climbers and its humid microclimate are a perfect refuge to surround yourself with nature when the city breathes sun and heat.
Four. AZCA
However, not everything was going to be nature and vegetation, since in a city like Madrid the shadow is not only projected by trees. The sun draws shapes when it collides with the tall commercial buildings in the area, led by the elegant Picasso Tower . Immersed in a reform that has begun this year and that aims to revalue the area and provide it with more green areas, the space of straight lines and pronounced vanishing points, full of commercial areas, constitutes a perfect solar shelter for the most urbanites.
Picasso Tower
5. HERMOSILLA 26
It would be a cliché to say that few people from Madrid know this hidden space in the heart of the Salamanca district, since much has been said about the hidden garden at number 26 Hermosilla street ; but apart from the shopping offer we can find in this small garden, its small dimensions and its leafy walls make it one of the favorite options if we are looking for that precious shadow in the center of the city , also occupied by a fun selection of garden furniture that visitors can use.
6. GARDENS OF THE MOORISH COUNTRYSIDE
Guarding the back of the Royal Palace, the Campo del Moro gardens offer you the chance to lying on the freshly cut grass sheltered by the shade of the big trees that flank the main promenade or more sheltered between the grove through which the Felipe V promenade runs. Two perfect corners to rest from your sunglasses and make a stop to recharge your batteries on a walk along the Madrid of the Austrians.
Lie on the grass and run away from the sun
7. ROOF OF THE FINE ARTS CIRCLE
It is impossible to talk about outdoor plans with which to enjoy some aspect of Madrid and not think about the roof terrace of the Círculo de Bellas Artes. The building, point of union between Alcalá and Gran Vía, It has one of the best views of the Madrid skyline from its roof, perfectly enabled for the use of visitors and that has some curious awnings that, rather than stop sunlight, sift it. It may not be the deepest shade and some rays of the sun touch your skin, but the views are worth it.
8. THE INTERIOR COURTYARD OF THE REINA SOFÍA
Inside the Reina Sofía National Museum there is an immense green patio in which not only the shade of its populated trees will protect you, but also the robust facades of the old general hospital of Madrid, converted into the third vertex of the city's art triangle . If you are looking for inspiration, in its patio you will find the ideal place to take your notes and your drawings without the reflection of the sun on your notepad making it difficult for you.
The best views of Madrid
9. NOUVEL PATIO OF THE REINA SOFÍA
Practically without moving from one place, we can experience another shed that is at the opposite pole, conceptually speaking, from the previous one. The New Courtyard l of the expansion of the Reina Sofía Museum, designed by the architect for whom it is named, Jean Nouvel. Surrounded by metal elements and glass, in the shade of the immense roof that rises over the building and accompanied by 'Brushstroke ’ , the sculptural work by Roy Lichtenstein that is part of the museum’s permanent exhibition, you will not even remember that the sun bathes the streets outside.
10. WALK OF RECOLETOS
Because it is not necessary to go to hidden and little traveled places to enjoy Madrid. And maybe sitting on a bench, in the middle of the main artery of the city, be aware that lashed by a blazing sun or hidden under the shadows of its centuries-old trees and monuments, Madrid shines with its own light.
A shadow with a lot of art
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