Parc de la Devesa

The vast green expanse known as Devesa Park is more than just a place for a stroll; it serves as the true "lungs" of the city of Girona. Covering an area of almost 40 hectares, it holds the title of the largest urban park in all of Catalonia. Located in the picturesque area between the Ter, Güell, and Onyar rivers, the park is a unique natural ensemble recognized as a national treasure that all of Spain is proud of.

Devesa Park. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

The main treasure of this place is the grand avenue consisting of over 2,600 plane trees. These giant trees, planted back in the mid-19th century, reach an incredible height of 55 meters. Their interlocking canopies create a dense natural dome overhead, providing welcome shade even on the hottest summer days.

In addition to the impressive avenues, you can find refined gardens designed in the French style. Here, native plant species harmoniously coexist with exotic flora brought from other countries. The combination of wild nature and orderly landscape design makes this space an ideal spot for aesthetic relaxation.

For those planning a visit, it is helpful to have the exact coordinates of this green space at hand. The park is conveniently located within walking distance of the city's central districts.

In this park, everyone will find something to their liking, from quiet contemplation of nature to active pastimes. The spacious, shady avenues are perfect for long walks, jogging, or cycling. Many come here for the peace and the opportunity to have a family picnic on the specially designated lawns, enjoying the fresh air in the very heart of the city.

For those who love local flavor, it’s worth stopping by on a Tuesday or Thursday—on these days, a traditional street market sets up in the park. Here, you can not only observe local life but also purchase farm products, clothing, and unique souvenirs. At the end of October, the park is transformed, becoming the center of the grand Fairs of Saint Narcissus (Fires de Sant Narcís), accompanied by amusement rides, concerts, and exhibitions.

For those who prefer sports, special areas and courts for active games are set up within the park. Regardless of the season, the park remains a vibrant cultural space, often hosting open-air festivals that allow guests to feel the true spirit of the region.

Finding this green oasis is quite easy, as it is located in close proximity to the historic center. If you are already strolling through the old quarters, the walk to the park entrance will take no more than 10–15 minutes. From the city's main railway station, the journey is about 1.5–2 kilometers, which can be covered on foot in 20 minutes or by taxi in just a couple of minutes.

For those who prefer public transport, city buses stop near the park. The nearest stops are located along Passeig de la Devesa. If you are traveling by rental car, there are parking areas around the park, though it is better to look for a spot in advance on market or fair days.

The history of this area is rooted in the distant past. The first mentions of the land where the park stands today date back to the 15th century. It was then that King Alfonso IV the Magnanimous gifted this plot to the city, laying the foundation for a future public space.

The park began to take on its current majestic appearance in the mid-19th century. During this period, a large-scale planting of thousands of plane trees was carried out, which today are its main pride. These trees have survived many historical eras and have become silent witnesses to the city's development.

Later, the park's architectural ensemble was complemented by elegant French-style gardens. The combination of the strict geometry of garden paths and the wild power of centuries-old trees has made this place a unique monument of landscape art, protected as a national treasure.

For a standard introductory visit and a leisurely stroll under the shade of the giant plane trees, you should set aside about 1.5–2 hours. This is plenty of time to cross the park, visit the French gardens, and take some beautiful photos against the backdrop of the ancient trees.

If your visit coincides with market days or you plan to have a small picnic on the grass, it is better to allow for 3 hours or more. The local atmosphere encourages a slow pace, so the park often becomes a place where tourists decide to simply take a break from their busy sightseeing schedule.

One of the main advantages of this location is its accessibility. The park is open to visitors 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, allowing you to enjoy a walk both in the daylight and in the mysterious atmosphere of late evening.

Please note that individual facilities on the grounds, such as sports pavilions or special event areas, may have their own schedules. The traditional market usually operates during the morning hours on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

The park's location makes it easy to combine a breath of fresh air with a visit to the city's key historical monuments. Just a few hundred meters away, ancient streets begin, leading to the main architectural masterpieces.

Exploring the surroundings will give you a complete picture of the region's rich heritage: from ancient Roman fortifications to majestic Gothic cathedrals. Below are the most interesting sites located within walking distance.