Parc de Can Mercader

Interesting facts

1. 1

   The park houses a rare 5-inch and 7.25-inch gauge miniature railway that has been operational since the 1980s.

2. 2

   The mansion on the property, Palau Mercader, features an original collection of clocks, paintings, and porcelain from the 19th-century aristocratic lifestyle.

3. 3

   The park's layout reflects the transition from Romantic-style gardens to more functional public recreational spaces.

4. 4

   The miniature train circuit is maintained by a dedicated local volunteer association rather than the municipal government directly.

5. 5

   The park contains specimens of exotic tree species planted during the original design of the estate in the 19th century.

Overview

Parc de Can Mercader is an 11-hectare historic garden located in Cornellà de Llobregat, surrounding the 19th-century Palau Mercader. The park features an extensive miniature railway circuit operated by the Brotherhood of Model Railway Enthusiasts. A decorative lake serves as a central point for the garden's landscaping, which dates back to the mid-1800s. The site includes the Museo Palacio de Can Mercader, housed within the original neoclassical mansion. Visitors can explore diverse botanical zones, including formal gardens and dense wooded areas. The park acts as a major green corridor for the Llobregat river basin. It serves as a community hub with integrated playground facilities and pedestrian paths. The estate was the former residence of the Counts of Mercader before transitioning to public parkland.

Insider tips

• Visit during the mini-railway operating windows to witness the active train circuit.

• Plan to visit the interior of the palace mansion, as it houses a distinct local museum that is often overlooked.

• Bring a picnic, as the park is designed with multiple open green spaces and designated tables.