The Aranjuez Gardens of Spain
The Aranjuez Gardens are situated just about an hour outside of Madrid, just aside the fertile and lush ground along the Tajo River. Over the years, many of the Royalty of the country of Spain, the kings and the queens throughout history have come to these gardens for leisure and vacation, and play. The landscape is a harmonious blend of nature and art, so it is no surprise that also throughout the years and the history, artists have come here for inspiration as well. There are many sculptures, and fountains and hundreds of years old trees that stand testament to the splendor of the Monarchy during the 1,600′s-1,700′s.
The park itself has been declared by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. There is a town by the garden, with the Royal Palace and many five star hotels. Spain has a love for gardens and there are many more in this region as well, including La Isla , El Parterre and El Principe. One of the many artists inspired by these gardens is the Joaquin Rodrigo, who honored the area in his work, Concierto of Aranjuez. La Isla is located just aside the Palace along the river. This is considered to one most indicative of the time, with white marble sculptures of nymphs and an orchard known to be a favorite of queen Isabel II. The flowers are laid out in a grid and the scents along the paths are overwhelming and intoxication. It is a mystical walk through the sculpture and the landscape.
To the front of the Palace lies the El Parterre. This garden is inspired by the French gardens of the era, with hedges cut in geometric shapes, bright vases made of marble, fountains and a colorful array of flowers. The El Principe is best wandered through during the fall season, as the leaves turning color and carpeting the paths are a magical vision. This one of the most peaceful gardens, with fountains and ponds, and many birds calling such as pheasants and starlings. In all, this is a very good day trip that will lead one away from the busy city, and out to nature, to art and to history.