PARQUE DE LOS JESUITAS
1 hourThe project for the new park was entrusted to architect Guillermo Sánchez Gil, who had recently completed the remodelling of the Real Jardín Botánico de Madrid. The project preserved the paths that already existed in the orchard, and, based on these axes, other paths and secondary transversal routes were added. Resting areas, sports zones, and up to five children's play areas were built in the southwest quadrant.
Every effort was made to respect the existing vegetation, primarily composed of fruit trees, which occupied two-thirds of the space. Additionally, new areas were reforested with denser tree cover to create ample shaded areas. The park boasts over 2,700 plants distributed among 82 different species. Many of the pear and apple trees from the Jesuit orchard were preserved, and a wide variety of trees were planted, such as cherry trees, quince trees, elms, plane trees, willows, olive trees, magnolias, cedars, firs, cypresses, pines, etc. In 2017, a special planting of 47 specimens was carried out, notably including three Sequoyas sempervirens obtained from cuttings of the University's redwood tree.
Stylistically, the park retains the original structure of the convent orchard, enclosed by stone walls along its entire perimeter. Its interior is structured in grids articulated around 4 axes that traverse the park in a North-South direction. From these axes, the different areas of the park are distributed (resting, sports, play areas, etc.).
These axes are, from west to east: the Paseo de las Fuentes, the Pergola Axis, the one running alongside the bar, and the East Axis which extends from the mini-golf area to the lake. Another path, parallel to the walls, runs along the entire inner perimeter of the park.
- The Paseo de las Fuentes is comprised of a succession of six small squares, each with a fountain and jets at its center. These small squares are equipped with benches, transforming them into inviting and cool spots, ideal for enjoying during hot summer days. At the end of this axis is the children's play area. The path is delimited by imposing cedar trees; the gardens are bordered by hedges, where the original fruit trees are maintained, accompanied by cypresses, holm oaks, and recently planted pine trees.
- The Axial Axis leads us to an area where traditional games can be played, such as 'calva', Leonese bowling, pétanque, 'la rana', etc. This same axis leads to the central area of the park, where the bar, dance area, and roller-skating area are located.
- Along the Eastern Axis, we again find the garden structure framed by hedges, where the original fruit trees alternate with other ornamental trees planted later. There are evergreen trees, such as pines or firs, and deciduous trees. This area features a mini-golf course, an outdoor fitness zone with exercise equipment, and a dog park. At the southern end, an expansive garden unfolds with extensive grassy lawns, a lake with decorative fountains, and a bridge allowing passage across it. The route concludes with several multi-sports courts that complement the facilities.
Currently, the park offers numerous areas for enjoyment and relaxation, including walking paths, resting areas, and children's play zones. It also features spaces dedicated to dancing, outdoor fitness areas, sports courts for futsal and basketball, a skateboard rink, and a mini-golf course. The bike lane runs along the western side of the park, connecting it with other green spaces and the rest of the city.