The lovely Maria Luisa Park began as palace gardens but was transformed into a well-used and much beloved public space in the early 20th century. Ponds, fountains, monuments, terraces and grand plazas punctuate manicured gardens and lawns. The magnificent Moorish Art Deco complex of Plaza de España, now used as civic offices, was built for the 1929 Ibero-American World’s Fair. The ample shade provided by orange trees, palms, elms and pines, as well as arbored paths, is a relief during hot months.
