Lost in thought near a fence? Here at the Reja del Zarzón, we find ourselves at a place with a story etched in stone and iron.
This isn’t just any fence. The Reja del Zarzón stands as a silent sentinel. It marks a boundary and whispers tales of royal hunts and hidden streams.
In 1769, King Carlos III commissioned Francisco Sabatini to enclose his hunting estate. The perimeter wall stretched for about 15 kilometers. It was built from flint and brick. Doors punctuated its length. Near the Colonia de los Ángeles in Pozuelo, the Reja del Zarzón was erected. It prevented entry via the Meaques stream.
The stream now flows underground until it enters the grounds. It feeds into the Manzanares River. Its source is near Ventorro del Cano in Alcorcón.
Imagine King Carlos III surveying his domain. He sought to keep his game within the Casa de Campo. The Reja del Zarzón played a vital role. It kept unwanted visitors out and the royal game in.
But the Reja del Zarzón is more than just a barrier. It represents a connection to the natural world. The nearby Fuente del Zarzón, the park’s oldest fountain dating back to 1898. It gets its name from the abundance of zarzas, or brambles, in the area.
Unlike many fountains in Casa de Campo, this one isn’t connected to the Canal de Isabel II. It draws water directly from a natural spring.
Walk along the path. Imagine the sounds of the hunt. Picture the king and his entourage riding through the estate. The Reja del Zarzón stood firm, a testament to royal power and meticulous planning.
The Reja del Zarzón fell into disrepair before its reconstruction. Its original stones scattered. But these remains allowed for a faithful restoration. It now stands as a portico. Granite jambs and a lintel support brick pillars.
Notice the open space to the side. It hints at the original width. Wrought iron once filled this gap. The Reja del Zarzón is a reminder of the past. It has been rebuilt with respect for its history.
Today, the Reja del Zarzón welcomes visitors. It invites exploration of the Casa de Campo. It stands as a symbol of Madrid’s rich history. It provides a glimpse into the life of a king. The gate connects us to the land. It connects us to the stories it holds.
As you pass through the Reja del Zarzón, take a moment. Consider the history. Appreciate the beauty. Remember the king. The fence is a testament to Madrid’s enduring legacy.