The Cristina Enea Park is one of the green spaces most emblematic and beloved of Donostia-San Sebastián. Located in the heart of the city, this park offers visitors a haven of peace and nature, where history, architecture and the environment intertwine to create a unique environment. Throughout its almost 95,000 square meters, walkers can enjoy a rich variety of flora and fauna, as well as architectural elements that tell the story of the Dukes of Mandas, who bequeathed this beautiful place to the city.
History of the park
The origin of the Cristina Enea Park dates back to the 19th century, a time of great transformations in Donostia-San Sebastián. The city, which was beginning to expand after the demolition of its walls in 1863, witnessed the development of new residential areas and green spaces that reflected the spirit of modernity and elegance that characterized the time.
In this context, Fermín de Lasala y Collado, Duke of Mandas, decided to acquire land in the last bend of the Urumea River, in what was then the outskirts of the city. With the intention of building a summer residence for him and his wife, Cristina Brunetti and Gayoso de los Cobos, the Dukes of Mandas bought plots of land, farmhouses and orchards to give shape to their vision of a paradise on earth. This is how Cristina Enea was born, a park named after the duchess and which was designed with the utmost care and detail, following the landscape trends of the time.
Cristina Enea’s palace was built in 1890 and, together with the gardens, became a meeting place for the high society of the time. Upon the death of the dukes, the estate was bequeathed to the city of San Sebastián with the condition that it be maintained as a public park, preserving its name and character for the enjoyment of future generations.
Characteristics of the Cristina Enea Park
The Cristina Enea Park extends over an area of almost 95,000 square meters, making it the largest park in the center of Donostia-San Sebastián. Its privileged location, on a hill formed by the last meander of the Urumea River, offers visitors spectacular views and a unique natural environment in the heart of the city.
One of the most notable features of the park is the great variety of flora it houses. From native trees such as oaks and beeches, to exotic species brought from different parts of the world, such as the Cedar of Lebanon or the Red Sequoia, Cristina Enea is an authentic open-air botanical garden. This environment was designed by Pierre Ducasse, gardener of the Royal Family, who created a harmonious landscape where paths, ponds and gardens integrate naturally into the terrain.
Among the architectural elements of the park, the palace, the chapel and the kitchens stand out, which were originally separated from the main building for security reasons. The pond is another attraction of the park, where visitors can observe swans, ducks and peacocks in a calm and serene environment.
Flora and fauna of the park
The Cristina Enea Park is a refuge for a great diversity of flora and fauna, making it an ideal place for nature lovers. Among the most emblematic trees in the park are the Cedar of Lebanon, which with its imposing 25 meters in height dominates its surroundings, and the Red Sequoia, a species native to the United States that stands out for being one of the tallest living beings on the planet. . Another notable tree is the Ginkgo Biloba, a true living fossil that has survived since the time of the dinosaurs and that in autumn offers a spectacle of color with its golden leaves.
As for fauna, Cristina Enea is home to a variety of species that add life to the park. Peacocks are perhaps the most iconic inhabitants of the area, known for their majestic tails and courtship behavior in spring. You can also find swans and ducks in the pond, as well as other more discreet but equally interesting species, such as the Stag Beetle, the largest beetle in Europe, and the Midwife Toad, a protected species that lives in the park’s ponds.
The Dukes of Mandas
The Dukes of Mandas, Fermín de Lasala y Collado and his wife Cristina Brunetti y Gayoso de los Cobos, were key figures in the history of Donostia-San Sebastián. Fermín de Lasala, born in 1832 into an influential family, had an outstanding political career, becoming ambassador in Paris and London, as well as Minister of Public Works. His wife, Cristina, was an aristocrat of Italian origin, known for her interest in natural history and her participation in the founding of the Royal Spanish Society of Natural History.
The couple was responsible for the creation of Cristina Enea, a farm that reflected their love for nature and their desire to create a retreat space on the outskirts of the city. Despite their numerous responsibilities and travels, the dukes maintained a close relationship with their estate, personally overseeing its development. After the death of Cristina in 1914 and Fermín in 1917, the property was bequeathed to the city with the intention of it becoming a public park, just as they had imagined.
Cultural and environmental legacy
The legacy of the Dukes of Mandas has endured over time, not only through the park, but also in the way this space has evolved to become a center for education and environmental awareness. In 2005, the municipal government rehabilitated the Cristina Enea palace, transforming it into the San Sebastián Environmental Resources Center, a place dedicated to promoting ecological awareness and respect for nature.
Furthermore, in 2008 the Cristina Enea Foundation was created, an entity that works on projects and programs aimed at promoting a more sustainable and responsible territorial model. This foundation, together with the resource center, has given new impetus to the park, developing activities and events that seek to educate citizens about the importance of preserving our natural environment.
Park highlights
The Cristina Enea Park houses several places of special interest that capture the attention of visitors. One of the most beautiful corners is the coniferous field, where you can admire large trees such as the Cedar of Lebanon, the Lawson Cypress and the Sequoias. This space, with its rich variety of trees from different continents, offers a serene and majestic atmosphere.
Another significant place is the sculpture by Gladys del Estal, located on a circular esplanade in the upper part of the park. This sculpture, dedicated to a young environmental activist who lost her life during a peaceful protest, is a reminder of the community’s commitment to protecting the environment. In front of the sculpture is an impressive specimen of Ginkgo Biloba, a tree that has survived natural disasters and is considered a symbol of resistance.
In addition, the park has several artificial ponds, designed to imitate natural habitats and provide a suitable environment for the reproduction of amphibians such as the common toad and the russet frog. These ponds are a testament to the ongoing effort to maintain and improve biodiversity in the park.
Activities and events in the park
The Cristina Enea Park is not only a space to walk and enjoy nature, but also a place where various activities and events take place. Throughout the year, the park offers guided walks that allow visitors to learn more about its history, its flora and fauna, and the conservation efforts being carried out.
In addition, the Environmental Resource Center regularly organizes environmental education activities aimed at all ages. These workshops and educational programs aim to raise awareness among citizens about the importance of preserving the environment and promoting sustainable practices in daily life.
The park is also the scene of cultural and community events, such as exhibitions, concerts and festivals that attract people of all ages. These activities not only enrich the cultural life of the city, but also foster a sense of community and connection with nature.
Hours and accessibility
The Cristina Enea Park is open to the public throughout the year, with hours that vary depending on the season. In summer, the park opens its doors from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., while in winter the hours are adjusted from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. These extensive hours allow visitors to enjoy the park at different times of the day, whether for a morning stroll, an afternoon of reading, or a sunset walk.
The park is easily accessible by public transportation, with several bus lines serving its surroundings. In addition, its central location makes it an ideal place for a quick escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, without the need for long trips.
Conservation and future of the park
The Cristina Enea Park has been the subject of numerous conservation efforts to preserve its biodiversity and its historical and cultural value. The Cristina Enea Foundation and the Environmental Resources Center have played a key role in these efforts, promoting sustainable practices and developing programs to protect the park’s ecosystem.
One of the biggest current challenges is the maintenance of natural habitats within the park, such as ponds and forests, which are essential for the survival of many species. Additionally, park management seeks to balance conservation with public enjoyment, ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy this space without compromising its ecological integrity.
The future of the park depends on continued collaboration between local authorities, environmental organizations and the community. With the right support, Cristina Enea will continue to be an example of how an urban space can be a refuge for nature and a place of learning and enjoyment for all.
Conclusion
The Cristina Enea Park is much more than a green space in the center of Donostia-San Sebastián. It is a living legacy of the Dukes of Mandas, a symbol of the city’s rich history and culture, and an example of how nature and urbanization can coexist harmoniously. Through its gardens, ancient trees and educational activities, the park invites visitors to reconnect with nature, learn about the importance of conservation and enjoy a serene and welcoming environment.
Cristina Enea is not only a refuge for local flora and fauna, but also a place where the community gathers to celebrate life, culture and the environment. As the park continues to evolve, its role as the city’s green lung and as a center for environmental education becomes increasingly important, ensuring that it remains a treasure for Donostia-San Sebastián and its inhabitants.
More information on their website.https://www.cristinaenea.eus/es/inicio
