Monument to Alfonso XII

On our tour of El Retiro we arrive at the Estanque Grande and see an imposing sculptural ensemble with a figure in the centre that stands out. Who is this person? What is this monument about?

Alfonso XII was the son of Isabel II and King of Spain from 1874 until his death in 1885. His reign was relatively short but he gave the country a boost of peace and modernisation that facilitated a more optimistic end to the century. During the years of "El Pacificador", Spain experienced important advances in the political and social spheres, and consolidated itself as a constitutional monarchy.

In gratitude for his work, it was decided to build a monument in his honour in 1902, just in time for the coming of age of his son and future king, Alfonso XIII, who inaugurated it twenty years later. If it reminds you of the monument to Vittorio Emanuele II in Rome or the monument to Wilhelm I in Berlin, you have a good eye!

The construction of the monument was a milestone for the time. Designed by architect José Grases Riera and sculptor Mariano Benlliure, it features an impressive bronze equestrian statue of Alfonso XII at the top of a marble staircase. The statue is surrounded by allegorical figures representing Agriculture, Science, Industry and Art.

But the monument is impressive not only for its design and history, but also for the views it offers. From the top of the steps, you can admire the most impressive views of the Retiro Pond and the surrounding gardens. Moreover, the monument is situated in a privileged location, almost in the centre of the park, making it the perfect starting point for a stroll around the Retiro.

The monument has been the scene of numerous events and celebrations over the years, including military ceremonies and cultural events. It has also been a popular venue for weddings and photo shoots due to its good location and impressive design, enhanced at Christmas time by the public lighting that is installed around it.

The esplanade where the monument is located has been the scene of several important events in Spanish history, such as the military uprising that led to the Civil War in 1936 and the demonstrations that followed the death of the dictator Franco in 1975.