Casa de Campo

The history of Casa de Campo began in the 16th century when King Philip II decided to move the Spanish court to Madrid. Seeking a private hunting estate close to the Royal Palace, he purchased the country house of the Vargas family and gradually expanded the territory by acquiring surrounding lands. For centuries, this vast expanse remained a strictly private enclave for the Spanish monarchy, serving as a royal preserve where kings and nobles enjoyed hunting and outdoor festivities away from the public eye. During the 18th century, under King Charles III, the estate saw further development with the introduction of new agricultural techniques and animal husbandry, though it remained off-limits to the general population. The landscape was carefully managed to balance wild forests with manicured gardens, creating a unique hybrid of wilderness and royal retreat. It wasn't until the proclamation of the Second Spanish Republic in 1931 that the park was finally ceded to the people of Madrid and opened to the public. Today, Casa de Campo stands as Madrid's largest public park, covering over 1,700 hectares. It has survived significant historical events, including serving as a primary front line during the Spanish Civil War, where trenches and bunkers can still be found hidden among the trees. Now, it serves as the 'green lung' of the city, offering a blend of historical ruins, recreational facilities, and untouched Mediterranean forest for all to enjoy.