Parque Lobera

Parque Lobera is one of the most charming urban parks in Melilla, the Spanish enclave on the North African coast. Tucked into the Ensanche Modernista district, on the border between the Carmen and Ataque Seco neighborhoods, the park covers roughly 2 hectares and blends greenery with the city's military history and 1920s park architecture.

Where does the park's name come from?

The park was inaugurated in 1927 and named after Cándido Lobera Girela — a military officer, writer, teacher, journalist and politician who founded and edited the local newspaper "El Telegrama del Rif." He headed the local administrative body during a period when Melilla was undergoing an architectural boom. Half a century later, in 1978, the park underwent a major renovation: waterfalls, a pond, pergolas, a fountain, a kiosk and a bandstand (templete) were added, along with sculptures by Rafael Picazo.

What will you see while walking through it?

The park's terraced paths and cascading waterfalls flow down from the walls of the Fourth Fortified Enclosure (Murallas del Cuarto Recinto Fortificado) — part of Melilla's former defensive system. The water feeds a small pond, next to a plaza ringed by pergolas. At the park's center stands a fountain, with a kiosk and a bandstand nearby where orchestras once performed. Lush, varied vegetation, wooden footbridges and small streams give the whole park a slightly wild, almost fairy-tale feel — locals often call it the most "magical" corner of Melilla.

Underground lies another attraction: a gallery over 130 meters long, carved out in the 18th century as part of the city's defensive fortification system. It once connected key strategic points of the garrison. The gallery is currently undergoing restoration work aimed at opening it to visitors — it's worth checking locally or with the tourist information office whether it can be visited at any given time.

How to get there and when to visit?

The park sits right in the heart of Melilla, within easy walking distance of the city's main landmarks, making it a natural stop while exploring the Ensanche district and its modernist buildings. Because of its terraced layout and numerous steps, the walk requires a bit of stamina, though the pace can easily be adjusted. The park is worth visiting year-round, but spring and autumn, with their milder temperatures, are especially pleasant for lingering among the greenery and waterfalls. In summer, the shade of the trees and the sound of running water offer welcome relief from the city heat.

Parque Lobera is popular with families — winding paths, footbridges and hidden corners give children plenty to explore, while adults can rest in the shade of the pergolas. It also makes a convenient starting point for further exploring Melilla's surrounding modernist streets.

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to see the park? A relaxed stroll through Parque Lobera, taking in the waterfalls, the pond and the sculptures, usually takes between 30 and 60 minutes.

Is the park suitable for children? Yes, the winding paths, footbridges and varied terrain make it a popular spot for families with children.

Can you visit the underground gallery? The 18th-century gallery is a historic site currently undergoing restoration to eventually open it to the public — it's best to check locally whether it's accessible at the time of your visit.

Is there an entrance fee? The park is an open public space, so walking through it does not require any entrance fee.