The history of amusement parks in Spain
“This is an article translated from our Spanish version.”
The beginnings:
Far from being a modern invention, theme parks or amusement parks have a long and fascinating history dating back to the Middle Ages. Emerged from medieval fairs, such as the English fair of St. Bartholomew in 1133, these leisure and entertainment spaces evolved over time, adapting to new generations and demands. In the 18th and 19th centuries, fairs became places of fun for the masses, where one could witness uncommon spectacles such as acrobatics, magic, or juggling, as well as participate in competitions or even interact with wild animals. The arrival of the 19th century marked a turning point with the introduction of the first mechanical attractions, such as the carousel or merry-go-round, and even the first roller coasters, which captivated the public’s fascination.
