Jardín del Parterre, Aranjuez

Step into the enchanting world of the Jardín del Parterre, a historical gem nestled beside the Royal Palace of Aranjuez in Spain. This exquisite garden, one of the few examples of classical French gardening in Spain, offers a delightful escape into a realm of meticulously manicured lawns, ornate fountains, and captivating sculptures. Recognized as a Cultural Heritage Site since 1931 and a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2001, the Jardín del Parterre is a testament to the grandeur and elegance of historical landscape design.

A Glimpse into the History of the Jardín del Parterre

The Jardín del Parterre was conceived during the reign of Philip V, between 1728 and 1735, under the guidance of Esteban Marchand. The garden marked the introduction of the French garden model, drawing inspiration from the design principles of Antoine Joseph Dezallier d'Argenville. Initially, the garden featured a series of parterres, circular ponds with central fountains, and lush green prairies bordered by hedges. Over time, the garden underwent several modifications, including the replacement of its southern and eastern walls with iron railings and the addition of a perimeter moat filled with water, creating a ha-ha effect.

In the 19th century, the garden saw further transformations, shifting from its original Baroque layout to an Isabeline design by Francisco Viet y Bayez. The addition of winding paths and island-like formations in 1871-1872 brought a new dimension to the garden's charm. Today, the Jardín del Parterre stands as a harmonious blend of historical influences, offering visitors a serene and picturesque retreat.

Exploring the Layout and Features

The Jardín del Parterre is an elongated trapezoidal garden, with its base adjoining the eastern facade of the Royal Palace. The garden is organized into three main sections, each centered around a fountain and connected by undulating pathways that follow a central axis. The first section, closest to the palace, features the Nereids fountains, symmetrically placed within two grassy areas bordered by boxwood hedges. Between these fountains, visitors can admire two roundabouts: one oval-shaped with a boxwood crown and another circular with a boxwood wind rose.

The second section revolves around the Ceres fountain, a transverse pond adorned with floral beds and boxwood hedges. The pond houses three sculptural groups, adding a touch of classical elegance to the garden. The third and final section, located within the semicircular eastern end of the garden, showcases the circular fountain of Hercules and Antaeus, surrounded by grassy patches.

Throughout the garden, triangular patches of lawn with curved edges seamlessly blend with the winding paths and fountains. These patches are adorned with ornamental shrubs and trees, bordered by neat boxwood hedges. The garden's perimeter is lined with trees, predominantly magnolias, creating a lush and verdant enclosure. The garden's entrance, located at the eastern end, features an iron gate with two rococo-style leaves and two guardhouses made of Colmenar stone. These guardhouses, adorned with oval windows and topped with statues of children carrying war trophies, add a touch of architectural splendor to the garden.

Sculptural Highlights

The Jardín del Parterre is home to an array of captivating sculptures, each with its own unique story and significance. Near the palace facade, visitors can find sphinxes and vases by Thierry. Although the sphinxes were not originally part of the garden, they were added in the 18th century and symbolize the eternal protection of the royal residence. The Thierry vases, brought to Aranjuez in 1804 from the gardens of the Royal Palace of La Granja de San Ildefonso, depict the four seasons and Bacchic masks with garlands of oak and ivy.

The Nereids fountains, featuring lead sculptures of sea nymphs, were installed by Humberto Dumandré in 1744. These sculptures, originally painted to resemble marble, are part of the garden's original decoration, celebrating the theme of water in nature. The Ceres fountain, created by Joaquín Dumandre, showcases the goddess Ceres seated with a torch and poppies, surrounded by allegorical figures representing the four seasons. This sculptural group, initially located in the Prince's Garden, was moved to the Parterre in 1889.

The Hercules and Antaeus fountain, completed in 1827, is a masterpiece of neoclassical sculpture by Juan Adán. The central group features Hercules and Antaeus atop a fluted column, surrounded by representations of Hercules' labors and mythical creatures. The lateral groups depict the Pillars of Hercules, with inscriptions and dragons gazing towards the center of the pond, adding a dramatic flair to the garden's artistic ensemble.

Conclusion

The Jardín del Parterre is more than just a garden; it is a living testament to the artistry and elegance of historical landscape design. Its meticulously crafted layout, rich history, and exquisite sculptures make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the cultural and natural beauty of Aranjuez. As you stroll through its winding paths, take a moment to appreciate the timeless charm and serene beauty that have captivated visitors for centuries. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an art lover, or simply seeking a tranquil escape, the Jardín del Parterre offers an unforgettable journey into the heart of Spanish horticultural heritage.