Located in the heart of A Coruña, the Méndez Núñez garden (known locally as Jardines de Méndez Núñez) is a verdant oasis that offers a perfect blend of history, nature, and culture. Named after the distinguished naval hero Casto Méndez Núñez, the garden is a testament to the city's rich maritime heritage and a beloved spot for both locals and visitors to unwind and enjoy the serene environment.
The history of the Méndez Núñez garden is as fascinating as the garden itself. Up until the mid-19th century, the only green space in A Coruña was the San Carlos bastion. However, with the expansion project of the port led by Celedonio de Uribe, a new area was reclaimed from the sea, known as El Relleno (The Fill). This newly created land was transformed into a garden at the suggestion of municipal architect José María Noya, following a design by Narciso García de la Torre.
In 1868, a public promenade was established, and on May 8, 1871, it was officially named after Méndez Núñez. The garden saw continuous improvements thanks to donations from wealthy citizens and notable figures, including Modesta Goicouría. By the late 19th century, refreshment kiosks and fairgrounds were set up, with the first kiosk designed by Faustino Domínguez Domínguez in 1877. In 1884, a music pavilion was inaugurated, and from 1896 onwards, statues honoring various public figures were installed.
The Méndez Núñez garden is home to a diverse array of plant species, making it a botanical treasure trove. Among the most notable are the two groups of Canary Island date palms, recognized as unique trees of Galicia. The garden also boasts an impressive collection of Eucalyptus diversicolor, Ombú trees, and Kentia palms. These botanical marvels provide a lush and varied landscape that attracts nature lovers and botany enthusiasts alike.
The garden is not just a haven for plant life but also a showcase of architectural beauty. One of the standout features is the Music Pavilion, originally designed by municipal architect Juan de Ciórraga in 1884. The current pavilion is a replica built in 1985, based on one of the designs by the English company Walter MacFarlane & Co. of Glasgow.
Other notable architectural landmarks within the garden include the Teatro Colón, designed by Jacobo Rodríguez-Losada Trulock in 1945, and the Hotel Atlántico, which houses the Casino Atlántico. The hotel was built over the former Hotel Atlantic (1923), which itself was constructed on the site of the Salón Cinema Coruña.
The Kiosco Alfonso, a modernist building by Rafael González Villar (1912-13), now serves as an exhibition hall. The Terraza, designed by Antonio de Mesa and Pedro Mariño (1921-1922), replaced the original building, which was moved to Sada in 1921. The Atalaya building (1933), in a rationalist style by Antonio Tenreiro, originally housed baths, a warehouse, and a children's library. The Copacabana kiosk-bar (1984), designed by architect Xosé Manuel Casabella, received an honorable mention in the first edition of the COAG architecture awards and was renovated in 2022.
The Méndez Núñez garden is adorned with numerous sculptures and monuments dedicated to various illustrious figures. The first sculpture, dedicated to Deputy Daniel Carballo and created by Agustín Querol in 1896, stands on a pedestal by Pedro Mariño. Another notable work by Querol is the monument to Aureliano Linares Rivas, erected in 1912.
Other significant monuments include those dedicated to Concepción Arenal by Rafael González Villar and Emilia Pardo Bazán by Lorenzo Coullaut Valera, both from 1916. Francisco Asorey's monument to Curros Enríquez (1928-1934) is also a highlight. The garden features monuments to Alfredo Suárez Ferrín (by Ramón Conde), Valle-Inclán (by Ramón Conde, 1986), Wenceslao Fernández Flórez (by José Castiñeiras Igrexas, 1985), Castelao (by Manuel Ferreiro Badía, 1986), Manuel Murguía (by Fernando Cortés Bugía), Juan Fernández Latorre (by José Escudero, 1958), Dr. Hervada (by José Escudero), Eduardo Pondal (by Fernando Cortés Bugía), and even a statue of John Lennon (by José Luis Ribas Fernández, 2005).
Additionally, there are monuments dedicated to the book and its creators (by Buciños, 1976), commemorating the International Year of the Child (by Mon Vasco), and the sculpture Xente by Emilio Celeiro (installed in 2021) in honor of healthcare workers for their efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic. The monuments by Felipe de Moratilla to Themis and Bacchus and the Neapolitan fisherman have been relocated to the municipal warehouse and the Aquarium Finisterrae, respectively.
In conclusion, the Méndez Núñez garden is not just a green space but a living museum that celebrates the history, culture, and natural beauty of A Coruña. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, this garden offers something for everyone. So, take a leisurely stroll through its pathways, admire the stunning flora and fauna, and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of stories that this enchanting garden has to offer.
Get your Tickets now!
With myCityHunt you can discover thousands of cities around the world in exciting scavenger hunts, treasure hunts and escape games!
myCityHunt vouchers are the perfect gift for many occasions! Surprise your friends and family with this extraordinary event gift. myCityHunt gift vouchers are valid for 2 years from the date of purchase and can be used within this period for a freely selectable city and tour from the myCityHunt portfolio.
Buy Gift Vouchers
