Didn’t you know that Parque México was once a horse racetrack? It is now a vibrant green space. Welcome to Parque México in Mexico City. It is officially called Parque San Martín. This park is more than just a place to stroll. It is the cultural heart of the Condesa area.
Parque México began its transformation in the 1920s. The Jockey Club’s horse racing track was turned into a modern park. Architect Leonardo Noriega and engineer Javier Stávoli designed the park. They created a unique urban oasis. The park spans nine hectares. Its design incorporates elements of European gardens. You can see ponds and winding walkways.
Notice how the paths differ from other parks in Mexico City. Traditional parks have diagonal paths. Parque México’s paths are organic and less rigid. They meander around attractions. The park is a fashionable place to meet people.
Look around. You’ll see fountains, ponds, and light posts that look like tree trunks. A large pond is home to ducks and swans. The trees include Lebanese cypress and mimosas. Some trees date back to the park’s founding.
The most famous feature is the Teatro al Aire Libre Lindbergh. It is also known as Foro Lindbergh. Five monumental pillars support marquesinas. A serpentine pergola surrounds the structure.
The Fuente de los Cántaros features a sculpture of a woman with large jars. Water once flowed from these jars. José María Hernández Urbina created this fountain. Luz Jiménez modeled for the sculpture. She also modeled for Diego Rivera. The five pillars define the stage area. It contains a relief/mural by Roberto Montenegro. It is called “Alegoría al Teatro.”
Parque México is the center of Colonia Hipódromo. Most streets follow the park’s lines or lead to it. The houses around the park match its Art Deco style. Important architectural examples from the 1920s and 1930s surround the park. Edificio San Martín and Edificio México are notable examples. Edificio San Martín retains classic architectural features. Bedrooms have the best views.
Parque México is the defining element of the larger Condesa area. It is also considered the lungs of Condesa.
The park’s history is tied to the Countess of Miravalle. She held horse races on her property. This property is now Parque México. José Luis Cuevas conceived the idea to turn the racetrack into a park. This made some streets curved around the park.
Renovations have occurred since the 1920s. A treatment plant and irrigation system were added in 2008. The Lindbergh Theater also underwent restoration.
In 2010, the city installed free WiFi in Parque México. In October 2013, a renovation started. This included an overall paint job. It also included restoration of the Lindbergh Forum.
Parque México is a mandatory visit for those in La Condesa. It offers a fun and relaxing experience. Whether crossing through or seeking recreation, the park is a vital part of daily life. Its art deco design and green spaces create an unforgettable atmosphere. This is a place where history and modern life blend seamlessly. Take a moment to appreciate the beauty and tranquility of this urban oasis.