Location: El Retiro Park in Madrid, Spain
Taken on: September 11, 2023
Format: JPEG
File size: 5.5 MB
Dimensions: 4096 x 2960 pixels
DPI: 300
Photographer: Andrey Kashukov, Cyprus

Photo can be used in posters, brochures, magazines, websites, blogs, business cards, applications, social media branding, packaging, postcards, notebooks, invitation backgrounds, flyers, banners, badges, stickers, collages, booklets, illustrations, etc.

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Serene View of El Retiro Park’s Grand Pond with Alfonso XII Monument

Capture the tranquil beauty of Madrid’s iconic El Retiro Park with this stunning digital photograph of the Grand Pond (Estanque Grande) and the majestic Monument to Alfonso XII. Taken on a beautiful day, September 11, 2023, this image perfectly encapsulates the serene atmosphere of one of Spain’s most beloved urban oases.

The photograph features the expansive Grand Pond in the foreground, with the calm waters reflecting the clear blue sky above. Several small rowboats dot the surface, hinting at leisurely afternoons spent enjoying the park. Dominating the background is the grand Monument to Alfonso XII, a striking architectural masterpiece with its impressive colonnade and the equestrian statue of King Alfonso XII atop a tall pedestal. Lush green trees frame the scene, adding depth and a touch of nature’s splendor. The lighting highlights the intricate details of the monument and the vibrant colors of the surrounding landscape.

This high-quality digital download is perfect for:

Madrid enthusiasts: Bring a piece of Spain’s capital into your home or office.
Travel lovers: Relive cherished memories or inspire future adventures.
Art and photography collectors: Add a beautiful and evocative piece to your digital collection.
Home decorators: Enhance your living space with a touch of European charm.

The Monument to Alfonso XII is a grand and impressive memorial located on the eastern edge of the Grand Pond (Estanque Grande) in El Retiro Park, Madrid, Spain. It’s a central and iconic feature of the park, easily recognizable by its majestic scale and prominent position overlooking the water.

Design and Structure: The monument is primarily constructed from bronze and marble. Its most striking element is a large semicircular colonnade of Ionic columns, which forms the main backdrop. At the center of this colonnade, atop a tall pedestal, stands an imposing equestrian statue of King Alfonso XII, cast in bronze.
Dimensions: The monument is substantial, measuring approximately 30 meters (98 ft) high, 86 meters (282 ft) long, and 58 meters (190 ft) wide.
Symbolism and Sculptures: The monument is richly adorned with allegorical figures and sculptures that pay tribute to Alfonso XII and the values of his reign. These include:
- Equestrian Statue: The central figure of King Alfonso XII on horseback.
- Allegorical Statues: Figures representing “La Paz” (Peace), “La Libertad” (Freedom), and “El Progreso” (Progress) are found at the central base.
- Representations of Society: Sculptures symbolizing “El Ejército” (The Army), “La Marina” (The Navy), “Las Ciencias” (Sciences), “La Agricultura” (Agriculture), “Las Artes” (The Arts), and “La Industria” (Industry) are also incorporated.
- Lions and Mermaids: Stairs descending from the monument towards the lake are flanked by stone lions and bronze mermaids.
History: The monument was commissioned in 1902 by the Queen Mother Maria Christina of Austria to honor her late husband, King Alfonso XII, who died in 1885. A national competition was held, won by architect José Grases Riera. Although Riera passed away in 1919, his design was completed by Teodoro Anasagasti, and the monument was inaugurated on June 6, 1922. Over twenty sculptors contributed to its creation.
Location and Significance: Situated on the edge of the Grand Pond, the monument provides a picturesque focal point for the park and is a popular spot for both locals and tourists to relax, take photos, and enjoy the views across the lake. From its elevated position, particularly from the viewing platform at its base, it offers scenic vistas of the surrounding park and, in some areas, parts of Madrid.

In essence, the Monument to Alfonso XII is not just a statue but a comprehensive architectural and sculptural ensemble that serves as a grand tribute to a Spanish monarch, embodying the artistic and historical heritage of Madrid.

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