Madrid, the capital of Spain, is known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and mouth-watering cuisine. However, when it comes to natural resources like bodies of water, Madrid is not particularly well-known.
But does that mean there are no bodies of water in Madrid? The answer is no – Madrid does have some bodies of water worth exploring.
River Manzanares
The River Manzanares is the most prominent body of water in Madrid. It flows through the center of the city and has a length of around 92 kilometers.
Despite being heavily polluted in the past due to industrial activities and urbanization, the river has undergone significant improvements over recent years with increased efforts to clean it up. The river now serves as a recreational area for locals and tourists alike.
Casa de Campo Lake
Casa de Campo Lake is another notable body of water in Madrid. It’s located within Casa de Campo Park, which is one of the largest public parks in Spain and covers an area of 1722 hectares.
The lake is man-made and was built in 1915 under King Alfonso XIII’s orders. It’s a popular spot for rowing boats and pedal boats.
Retiro Park Lake
Retiro Park Lake is another artificial lake located within one of Madrid’s most famous parks – Retiro Park. It was constructed in 1630 as part of a palace complex but has since been transformed into a recreational area for visitors to enjoy. There are paddle boats available for rent on this lake as well.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while Madrid may not be known for its abundant natural resources like bodies of water, there are still some notable ones worth exploring such as River Manzanares, Casa de Campo Lake and Retiro Park Lake among others. These bodies provide locals and visitors with ample opportunities for recreational activities like boating and fishing. So, the next time you are in Madrid, don’t forget to check out these beautiful bodies of water.