Turó Park
Sarrià-Sant Gervasi

Tucked away in the elegant district of Sant Gervasi-Galvany in Barcelona lies the enchanting Turó Park, a verdant oasis that offers a serene escape from the bustling city life. Known locally as Turó parc, this charming park is a testament to the city's commitment to preserving green spaces amidst urban development. With its lush landscapes, tranquil ponds, and artistic sculptures, Turó Park is a delightful spot for both locals and tourists seeking a peaceful retreat.

The History of Turó Park

The history of Turó Park is as rich and varied as its lush vegetation. Originally, in the early 20th century, the area was home to the Lawn Tennis of Turó and, in 1912, it became a vibrant amusement park known as Turó Park. By 1917, the land was earmarked for green space development as part of the city's urban planning. When the amusement park closed in 1929, the owner, Josep Bertrand i Salsas, struck a deal with the city council, donating the central part of the land in exchange for urbanizing the rest. The task of designing the new park fell to Nicolau Maria Rubió i Tudurí, the director of the Parks and Gardens Service, who crafted a space that opened to the public in 1934.

Exploring Turó Park

Stepping into Turó Park is like entering a serene, green sanctuary. The main entrance on Bori i Fontestà Street welcomes visitors with an inviting path that leads to a small pond adorned with an elegant sculpture by Apel·les Fenosa, dedicated to the renowned cellist Pau Casals. This oval plaza serves as a central hub, from which three paths diverge, inviting exploration through a canopy of more than fifty oak trees.

The left perimeter paths guide visitors toward a spacious children's play area and further on to an oval-shaped pond covered with water lilies. This tranquil water feature is surrounded by a vast lawn, where towering lime trees provide shade and a sense of grandeur. On the right side of the park, one can find the Teatret Square, complete with a charming refreshment kiosk, perfect for a leisurely break.

Flora and Fauna

Turó Park is a botanical treasure trove, boasting a diverse array of plant species. The oak grove, with its undergrowth of Mediterranean shrubs and climbers like the laurustinus, is a highlight. Visitors can also admire the majestic magnolias, pepper trees, Himalayan cedars, lime trees, plane trees, and Judas trees. The park is also home to impressive specimens of date palms, Canary Island palms, and Washingtonia palms. Among the shrubs, laurel and oleander add to the vibrant tapestry of greenery. Perimeter flowerbeds are adorned with roses and aromatic plants, adding splashes of color and fragrance to the air.

Sculptures and Artistic Elements

Art and nature coexist harmoniously in Turó Park, where sculptures add a cultural dimension to the natural beauty. Notable works include the sculpture by Josep Clarà dedicated to the tenor Francesc Viñas, and Un Oiseau by Jean Michel Folan. In the meadow, La ben plantada by Eloïsa Cerdan pays homage to the writer Eugeni d'Ors with a striking bronze piece. The park also features the Font de l'Aurora by Joan Borrell i Nicolau, which presides over the magnolia parterre. Scattered throughout the park are plaques with fragments of poems by Federico García Lorca, Fernando Pessoa, Dylan Thomas, Sylvia Plath, Walt Whitman, Narcís Comadira, Salvador Espriu, Joan Vinyoli, and Alfonsina Storni, offering a poetic journey for visitors.

In conclusion, Turó Park is more than just a green space; it is a cultural and natural haven that invites reflection, relaxation, and inspiration. Whether you're strolling through its shaded paths, enjoying the artistic sculptures, or simply basking in the tranquility of its ponds and lawns, Turó Park is a must-visit destination for those seeking a moment of peace in the heart of Barcelona.