Enrique Tierno Galván Park

Enrique Tierno Galván Park is a large urban park in Madrid, located in the Arganzuela district right next to the Legazpi neighborhood. Covering roughly 45 hectares, it ranks among the biggest green spaces in the southern part of the Spanish capital, drawing both locals looking for a place to walk or picnic and visitors keen to see a side of Madrid beyond the historic center.

Where does the park's name come from?

Construction began in 1985 as part of a broader urban renewal project called "Llave del Sur" ("Key to the South"), aimed at reclaiming run-down, largely industrial land in southern Madrid. At the time, Enrique Tierno Galván, a widely respected mayor of Madrid, was still in office. He died in January 1986, and when the park officially opened in May 1987, it was named after him in recognition of his contribution to the city. Because it transformed a neglected industrial area into public green space, the park is often seen as one of the visible signs of Madrid's modernization after the Franco era.

How do you get to the park?

The park sits between the former Delicias railway station — now home to the Railway Museum (Museo del Ferrocarril) — and the M-30 ring road, which runs along one of its edges. This position makes it easy to reach by public transport, with metro stations and bus stops serving the Arganzuela and Legazpi areas close by. Drivers can use the M-30 as a simple reference point when approaching from other parts of the city.

What can you see inside the park?

The park's main landmark is the Madrid Planetarium, designed by architect Salvador Pérez Arroyo and opened in 1986 as one of the first buildings on the site. It remains an active educational venue offering astronomy shows for both children and adults. The park has also historically hosted an IMAX cinema and an open-air auditorium used for concerts and cultural events. Beyond these attractions, most of the site is simply open green space — walking paths, lawns, and shaded resting areas that work well as a break from the noise of the city center.

When is the best time to visit?

The park is open year-round, but spring and autumn tend to be the most comfortable seasons, since Madrid's summer heat can be intense. If visiting in summer, mornings or early evenings are the best times to avoid the highest temperatures. Anyone planning to visit the Planetarium should check the show schedule in advance, as seating for individual sessions is limited.

Frequently asked questions

How big is Enrique Tierno Galván Park? The park covers about 45 hectares, making it one of the largest urban parks in Madrid.

Is there a planetarium in the park? Yes, the Madrid Planetarium has stood in the park since 1986 and offers regular astronomy shows for visitors of all ages.

How can I reach the park by public transport? The park borders the Arganzuela and Legazpi areas and the former Delicias station, with metro stations and bus stops nearby serving this part of the city.

Is entry to the park free? The park itself is open to the public free of charge, but visiting the Planetarium and attending its shows requires a separate paid ticket.