Maria Luisa Park

The Maria Luisa Park in Seville is an oasis of greenery and beauty in the heart of the city, a place where history, art, and nature blend into a unique experience. This park, which covers over 34 hectares, is one of the main green lungs of Seville and a symbol of the city’s cultural and landscape heritage. The history of Maria Luisa Park began in 1893, when the Duchess of Montpensier, Maria Luisa Fernanda de Borbón, donated a part of the gardens of her palace to the city of Seville. These gardens, which were part of the San Telmo Palace, were later transformed into a public park. The true transformation of the park, however, took place during the Ibero-American Exposition of 1929, when the French architect and landscaper Jean-Claude Nicolas Forestier was commissioned to redesign and expand the area. Inspired by the style of Moorish and Andalusian gardens, Forestier created a landscape that combines elegance and romanticism, enriched with architectural and decorative elements. One of the most fascinating elements of Maria Luisa Park is its landscape structure. The winding paths, flower beds, and numerous fountains create a charming environment that invites strolling and contemplation. The fountains, in particular, are true works of art: the Fountain of the Lions, with its four marble lions supporting the central basin, and the Fountain of the Frogs, surrounded by bronze frog sculptures, are just two examples of the beauty that can be found in every corner of the park. The park is also rich in monuments and sculptures that testify to the history and culture of Seville. Among these, the Plaza de España is perhaps the most famous. Built for the Ibero-American Exposition of 1929, this semicircular square, designed by architect Aníbal González, is a masterpiece of regional architecture. The square is adorned with azulejos representing the Spanish provinces, creating a mosaic of colors and shapes that celebrates the country’s diversity. The canal surrounding the square, crossed by four decorated bridges, adds an additional element of charm and serenity. Another point of interest is the Plaza de América, located within the park. This square is surrounded by buildings constructed for the 1929 Exposition, including the Archaeological Museum and the Museum of Arts and Popular Traditions. The Plaza de América is a perfect example of neo-Moorish style, with its decorative details in ceramic and bricks that recall Islamic art. Maria Luisa Park is also a place of great botanical value. Here you can find numerous species of exotic and local plants, including palms, pines, cypresses, and oranges, creating a lush and diverse environment. The plants are arranged in such a way as to create a sequence of different landscapes, each with its own character and charm. The Water Lily Gardens, with their water basins full of lotus flowers, and the Rose Garden, with its fragrant flower beds, are just two examples of the extraordinary botanical variety of the park.