Ponds, sculptures and slides grace the leafy park near this long and innovative two-part bridge that doesn’t quite meet in the middle.
The Puente Monumental Parque de Arganzuela is a modern and stylish structure built by a French architect in 2011. It has a distinctive style, with its sides comprising a spiral of steel that covers parts of the bridge overhead. Marvel at the innovative design of this structure, which combines art and nature to great effect.
Stroll across and through the impressive bridge and notice how its wraparound design resembles a corkscrew. It is split into two halves, with one side stretching across the Manzanares River and the other leading over a park and walkway. Spot the jets of water erupting from the river just beside the bridge. Ponds and grassy knolls adorn the scenic and tranquil banks in this leafy zone.
As more than just a means of crossing the river, the bridge is an attraction in its own right. Relax with a book on one of the benches within the spiral or ride a bike along the circuit that meanders through the surrounding park.
Continue along the path as it curves along the northern bank. Inspect the intriguing sculptures carved into the base of the Castellana Obelisk. Let kids play on the undulating slides that run down the riverside hill. Bring food for a picnic next to one of the three ponds or dine at the café overlooking the river.
See the bridge at night, when its conical shell emits a warm glow over the water. The forms of the lanterns on the bridge resemble birds and butterflies, exemplifying the harmony between art and nature.
The Puente Monumental Parque de Arganzuela links the districts of Carabanchel and Arganzuela in the southern part of Madrid. Ride the C1 or C10 rail service to the Pirámides station and walk south for a few minutes to get to the bridge. You can also take the metro to the Marqués de Vadillo stop nearby. While here, explore the area for other attractions such as the Parque de Comillas and the Museo Atlético de Madrid.
