When we think of the most beautiful gardens in Spainit is normal that we think of cities like Madrid or Barcelona, recognized for their rich history and culture. There is, however, a city which, although less known internationally, is home to one of the most spectacular and surprising gardens in the entire country. This garden is characterized both by its natural beauty and by its unique design, its richness biodiversity and the historical heritage that it shelters on every street corner.
With a perfect mix between architecture, nature and culturethe garden stands out for its ability to surprise those who visit it, offering an incomparable sensory experience. With winding paths, fountains that invite relaxation and a variety of lush plants, the garden becomes a haven of peace and harmony in the middle of the city. Its design, influenced by various cultures and eras, has remained true to its essence and today remains one of the best kept secrets in Spain.
Turia Gardens
The Turia River Gardens constitute one of the largest green lungs in Spain and one of the Europe’s most impressive urban parks. This garden occupies a strip of land of 136 hectares which extends for almost nine kilometers in the heart of Valencia.
Although Retiro de Madrid is generally recognized as one of the most famous parks in Spainthis one takes the lead in terms of size and complexity; It is an exceptional example of how nature and urbanization can merge harmoniously to offer citizens and visitors a unique place for leisure, sport and tranquility.
History
THE history of the Turia gardens is marked by a tragic episode: the great flood of 1957, which devastated the city of Valencia, causing the Turia River to be diverted to the south of the city. This change left a strip of free land in the center of Valencia, which, instead of being used for the construction of new highways, as initially planned, was transformed into an urban park after a citizen request process. In 1986, this park was officially inaugurated, after the intervention of eminent urban planners and landscapers who designed its different sections.
What was once a riverbed is now a green space that runs through the city, connecting neighborhoods and landmarks. The park, which extends from Cabecera Park at the City of Arts and Sciences, offers a great diversity of environments. Each section is carefully designed to serve various functions, from sports and recreational areas to quieter spaces for walking or resting. Visitors can enjoy a rich and varied flora, such as palm trees, orange trees, pines, aromatic plants and rose bushes, which adorn the route, creating an atmosphere of freshness and vitality.
Places of interest
With spaces dedicated to sportLike the football, baseball and basketball fields, the park has become a meeting point for exercise enthusiasts. In addition, the park is ideal for runners and cyclists, who find here a perfect space to train and enjoy the outdoors.
The Turia Gardens are also known for their architectural beauty, which is reflected in 18 bridges which cross the park. These bridges are witnesses to the history of Valencia, as some date back centuries, while others are more modern and reflect contemporary styles. The bridges connect different areas of the park and allow visitors to enjoy unique views of the city.
Likewise, along the route, visitors can find several points of cultural interest, such as the Bioparc and the Palau de la Música, located next to the park. In addition, the Turia Garden serves as a link between nature and culture, bringing together spaces such as the Museum of Fine Arts, the Valencian Institute of Modern Art (IVAM) and the Torres de Serranos, all located on the banks of the ancient river bed.
One of the most popular and special corners of the park is the Gullivera giant slide park inspired by the work of Jonathan Swift. In this place, children can climb and slide down a huge 70-meter figure, creating a unique recreational experience. In addition, the park has other family leisure areas, with large esplanades where the little ones can enjoy outdoor games.
The importance of Turia Gardens For Valencia, it is indisputable. It is not only a natural space, but also a very important element in the daily life of the city’s residents. With more than three million visitors per year, this urban park has become a reference in Valencia and one of the most visited places in Spain.
