Parc de la Maquinista de Sant Andreu, nestled in the Bon Pastor neighborhood of Barcelona, is a delightful blend of history, nature, and modern urban design. This charming park, also known by its local name, Parque de la Maquinista de Sant Andreu, offers visitors a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life while paying homage to the area's industrial past.
The park's origins trace back to the early 20th century when the site was home to the Maquinista Terrestre y Marítima, a renowned company specializing in the construction of railway machinery. Founded in 1855 in Barceloneta, the company relocated to Sant Andreu de Palomar in 1920. However, by 1993, the company moved once again, this time to Santa Perpètua de Mogoda, leaving the expansive grounds behind.
In the late 1990s, the land was acquired by public authorities and underwent a transformation. The design, crafted by the architectural team L-35, led by Juan Fernando de Mendoza and José Ignacio Galán, aimed to preserve the industrial heritage while creating a vibrant green space for the community. The park officially opened its gates in the year 2000, welcoming visitors to explore its unique blend of past and present.
One of the park's standout features is its openness, seamlessly integrating with the adjacent streets and neighborhoods. The expansive green spaces are perfect for leisurely strolls, picnics, or simply soaking in the tranquil ambiance. As you wander through the park, you'll encounter a variety of recreational areas catering to visitors of all ages.
For families, the children's play area is a popular spot, equipped with modern play structures that promise hours of fun. Dog owners will appreciate the dedicated dog park, where their furry friends can frolic off-leash in a safe environment. Sports enthusiasts can challenge friends to a game of table tennis at the park's ping-pong tables.
At the heart of Parc de la Maquinista de Sant Andreu lies the Estany Narcís Monturiol, a lake shaped like an orange segment. This picturesque body of water is not only a visual delight but also a nod to the park's industrial roots. Rising from the lake is a striking iron structure resembling a ship, a creation by Juan Fernando de Mendoza. This building once housed the Macosa MTM Museum, which showcased historical documents, blueprints, photographs, models, and artifacts from the Maquinista Terrestre y Marítima company.
Another fascinating feature is the large machinery wheel that emerges from the lake, standing as a sculptural tribute to the site's industrial heritage. This wheel, originally part of the first steam engine used by the factory in Barceloneta, was relocated to Sant Andreu in 1963 and now serves as a captivating historical marker.
Nature enthusiasts will find much to admire in the park's diverse vegetation. The landscape is adorned with a variety of tree species, including the evergreen holm oak (Quercus ilex), the olive tree (Olea europaea), and the majestic oak (Quercus pubescens). Other notable species include the cypress (Cupressus sempervirens), white poplar (Populus alba), tipu tree (Tipuana tipu), Aleppo pine (Pinus halepensis), and the iconic plane tree (Platanus x hispanica).
The park also boasts an array of ornamental plants such as the yucca (Yucca elephantipes), European fan palm (Chamaerops humilis), honey locust (Gleditsia triacanthos), and the weeping willow (Salix babylonica). This rich tapestry of flora provides a lush and inviting environment for visitors to enjoy.
Birdwatchers will be delighted by the park's avian inhabitants. The park is home to a variety of bird species, including the swift (Apus melba), goldfinch (Carduelis carduelis), and the rock pigeon (Columba livia). Visitors may also spot the vibrant rose-ringed parakeet (Psittacula krameri) and the monk parakeet (Myiopsitta monachus) among the trees.
Other notable bird species include the common starling (Sturnus vulgaris), common swift (Apus apus), serin (Serinus serinus), magpie (Pica pica), yellow-legged gull (Larus michahellis), great tit (Parus major), little egret (Egretta garzetta), blackbird (Turdus merula), barn swallow (Hirundo rustica), house sparrow (Passer domesticus), Eurasian tree sparrow (Passer montanus), European robin (Erithacus rubecula), Sardinian warbler (Sylvia melanocephala), Eurasian collared dove (Streptopelia decaocto), common wood pigeon (Columba palumbus), European greenfinch (Chloris chloris), and the common kestrel (Falco tinnunculus).
In conclusion, Parc de la Maquinista de Sant Andreu is more than just a park; it's a living testament to Barcelona's rich industrial history and a vibrant green oasis in the heart of the city. Whether you're a history buff, nature lover, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, this park offers something for everyone. So, take a moment to explore, relax, and immerse yourself in the unique charm of this urban gem.
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
