The Real Jardín Botánico in Madrid is a lush retreat in the heart of the city, founded in 1755 by Ferdinand VI and later redesigned by architects Sabatini and Villanueva. Located near the Prado Museum, it houses over 5,500 plant species from around the world, arranged across three tiered terraces and two greenhouses. Visitors can explore the Herbarium, Spain’s largest, with over a million specimens, and the Library, which holds rare botanical manuscripts. The garden’s Villanueva Pavilion hosts exhibitions, while themed routes highlight unique trees and Andalusian flora. Its scientific mission continues under the Spanish National Research Council, offering educational programs and conservation initiatives. Open year-round, the garden provides a serene escape with seasonal blooms, making it a must-visit for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
Madrid SpainThe Real Jardín Botánico de Madrid is located at Plaza de Murillo, 2, 28014 Madrid, right next to the south entrance of the Prado Museum and along the Paseo del Prado in the city center. This historic botanical garden is part of Madrid’s renowned “Landscape of Arts and Sciences,” a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and is easily accessible by metro via the Atocha station. Nearby, you’ll find the Museo Nacional del Prado directly across the street, as well as the Thyssen-Bornemisza and Reina Sofía museums within a short walk, forming Madrid’s famous “Golden Triangle of Art”. El Retiro Park, another major green space, is also close by, making the area a cultural and botanical hub in Madrid.