Estanque Ochavado, fountain in Madrid
The Estanque Ochavado is an artificial pond and fountain in Madrid's Retiro Park with a distinctive eight-sided shape. A rock grotto structure at its edge channels water into the basin, creating a gentle flow that feeds the entire pool.
The pond was created in the 17th century when the Retiro Park was built under King Felipe IV as part of the Ochavado garden with eight converging pathways. Over the centuries it underwent several transformations, including the replacement of an original octagonal tower with a Chinese-style pavilion and later the addition of the current rock grotto structure.
The pond takes its name from the small bells that once hung from the central structure and chimed in the wind. Today visitors can still sense that history through the eight-sided form and the decorative island at the center.
The pond is bordered by an iron railing that traces its octagonal edge and keeps visitors at a safe distance from the water. An information plaque provides historical context and displays old photographs of the site.
The original octagonal structure in the water was not just a pavilion but likely served as a play area for children of the royal court. The central island remains today as a hidden spot that invites visitors to imagine the park's past.
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