Paisaje de la Luz

Paisaje de la Luz is an ensemble of wide, tree-lined avenues, parks, and historic buildings in central Madrid that became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2021. The area connects Paseo del Prado with Retiro Park and houses major museums, monuments, and fountains like the Cibeles and Neptune fountains.

Paseo del Prado began as a promenade in the 15th century and was enhanced with trees and fountains under King Philip II. In the late 18th century under King Charles III, the area was redesigned and became a model for park and street design across Latin America.

The name reflects how light and shadow play across the wide avenues and green spaces throughout the day. Visitors notice how this area has long served as a gathering place where people stroll, meet, and encounter artworks and fountains along the paths.

The pathways are wide and well-maintained, allowing comfortable walking for groups or families. Tall trees provide shade, making the area pleasant to visit during warmer months.

Cuesta de Moyano is a small street with wooden bookstalls where visitors can purchase old books, poetry, and art volumes. Authors sometimes appear to sign their works or read poetry aloud.

Location: Madrid

Address: Pl. Cibeles, 1, Retiro, 28014 Madrid, Spain

Website: https://paisajedelaluz.es

GPS coordinates: 40.41893,-3.69215

Latest update: January 19, 2026 16:13