Perched atop Cerro Morán, the question arises: what stories does the Mirador del Estanque del Repartidor hold? This area is also known as Depósito de Aguas. It is more than just a scenic spot. It is a testament to Madrid’s historical ingenuity in water management.
Back in the reign of Alfonso XII, the area faced a critical problem. There was a shortage of water for irrigating the Casa de Campo. To solve this, the king ordered the construction of a large reservoir near Cerro Murat. This is the Estanque del Repartidor. It would be supplied with water from the Canal de Isabel II.
The project was entrusted to José Pérez Sanjuán. He designed new canals in the north to connect with existing ones. Before this, in 1876, there was a plan to transfer water from the Río Manzanares. It involved a system of norias designed by José López Vargas, but it never happened. Later that year, engineer Morer designed a water distribution system from the Canal de Isabel II for the Casa de Campo.
King Alfonso XII also ordered a small house built. This house had different keys to distribute water to various locations. This is the Repartidor. The project aimed to link this reservoir with the existing canals in the south. José Pérez Sanjuán connected the Cacera del Sur, 2,250 meters long from the Arroyo de los Meaques to the Reservado, with the Cacera Norte through the Escalerilla del Lozoya in the Pinar de las Siete Hermanas.
Construction finished in 1878. But it wasn’t until September 30, 1883, that the hydraulic complex was completed. Carlos Varela, the project director, finalized the 22-kilometer network. It included two main canals, 23 irrigation channels, and 210 distribution boxes. These allowed water to be drawn for irrigation.
On May 27, 1891, the Estanque del Repartidor was used for a fish repopulation experiment. Three thousand trout fry were brought from the Monasterio de Piedra fish farm. Engineers Michelena and Breñosa carried out this experiment. Unfortunately, it wasn’t very successful.
The daily water consumption from this pond reached 6,500 hectoliters in 1916. It was supplied by a water pipe from the Canal de Isabel II. The pond measures approximately 100×50 meters. The water was distributed through a nearby neo-Mudéjar building called Repartidor. Inside were the stopcocks.
King Alfonso XII suggested adding a gazebo and a viewpoint. This was for the monarch’s enjoyment. Sadly, the area was badly damaged during the Civil War from 1936 to 1939. It was later rebuilt in 1948.
The Repartidor Pond is home to a beautiful Mudejar-style booth. It houses the water distributor. This historical landmark can be seen from the Cerro Garabitas path. This is a popular route for cyclists and hikers.
Visitors appreciate the peaceful ambiance. There are benches overlooking the old pond. You find clean rest areas with fountains and tables. The pond’s water supply history and its connection to the Casa de Campo barracks make it an intriguing site. A section of track built during the civil war adds to its historical value.
So, as you stand at the Mirador del Estanque del Repartidor, remember its past. From royal decrees to civil war damage, this site has witnessed Madrid’s evolution. Take a moment to imagine King Alfonso XII enjoying the views. Think about the engineers who worked tirelessly to bring water to the city. Their efforts have shaped the landscape we see today.