If you've ever strolled through El Retiro, you're sure to have come across one of the most beautiful palaces in Madrid. In front of one of the lakes in this park, between the Palacio de Velázquez and the monument to Benito Pérez Galdós, stands a transparent iron structure that is unmistakable. You are in front of the Crystal Palace. Today we invite you to find out about its history, the cultural activities it offers visitors, opening hours and all the information you may need to visit this unique space.
A bit of history
The Crystal Palace that we are looking at today was built as a greenhouse for the Flora of the Philippine Islands Exhibition in 1887. For this purpose, its large interior space was designed with specific characteristics. A water pylon was installed under the dome and was used to house the different exotic vegetation of that country, such as tropical palms, grasses and a wide variety of aquatic plants. From its creation until now, this building has witnessed great historical events in Madrid, such as the moment when Manuel Azaña was elected president of the Republic in 1936.
Features
This transparent palace is a clear example of iron and glass architecture, which was built by Ricardo Velázquez Bosco. The building is divided into three naves that open onto a large terrace with steps that literally plunge into the artificial lake. The dome is 22.60 metres high. Today it belongs to the Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía and contemporary art exhibitions are held inside.
Interesting facts
How to get there
The Palacio de Cristal is located inside El Retiro, so it can be accessed through different doors.
Metro: Retiro (L2), Ibiza (L9), Estación del Arte, antigua Atocha (L1)
Buslines 1, 2, 15, 20, 26, 26, 28, 51, 52, 61, 74, 146, 152
Cercanías: Atocha C2, C3, C4, C5, C7, C8, C10
Timetable
Open every day with different opening hours depending on the time of year.
April-September: 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
October: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
November-March: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Closes: 25 December, 1 and 6 January, 1 and 2 May.
In addition, the building can be closed on rainy days due to its characteristics.
Tariff
Free admission
Address
Paseo República de Cuba, 4 (inside El Retiro)
Telephone
91-774 10 00
