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Lisbon, with its vibrant energy and captivating history, is an ideal destination for young professionals seeking a blend of culture and relaxation. One of the city's crown jewels is Parque Eduardo VII, a sprawling park offering stunning views, historical landmarks, and a unique botanical escape. Here's why you should add it to your Lisbon itinerary:
Arriving at Parque Eduardo VII
I arrived at the base of Parque Eduardo VII via Bolt (Portugal's rideshare app) at the bustling Marquês de Pombal roundabout. While you'll see numerous bright red double-decker buses offering city tours, consider skipping these, as I've heard they can be somewhat lackluster. Instead, lace up your walking shoes and prepare to explore this magnificent park on foot.
The roundabout at the park's base honors Sebastião José de Carvalho e Melo, better known as the Marquês de Pombal, a pivotal 18th-century statesman who led Lisbon's reconstruction after the devastating 1755 earthquake.
Initially named Parque da Liberdade (Liberty Park), Parque Eduardo VII was established in the late 19th century. It was renamed in 1903 to honor King Edward VII of the United Kingdom, whose visit solidified the strong Anglo-Portuguese alliance. The park underwent a significant redesign in 1945 by renowned architect Francisco Keil do Amaral, resulting in its expansive layout, iconic geometric hedges, and the stunning Observation Deck. Parque Eduardo VII serves as a vibrant cultural hub in Lisbon, hosting numerous fairs, exhibitions, and events like the annual Book Fair.
Ascending the Park: History and Architecture
As I embarked on my walk up the right side of the park, I admired hidden pathways and lush greenery. I soon encountered Pavilhão Carlos Lopes, a striking building with intricate tilework – a hallmark of Portuguese architecture.
Pavilhão Carlos Lopes holds a fascinating story. Originally constructed as the Portuguese Industries Pavilion for the 1922 International Exhibition in Rio de Janeiro, it was later dismantled and meticulously rebuilt within Parque Eduardo VII between 1929 and 1931. In 1984, the building was renamed to honor Carlos Lopes, the legendary Portuguese marathon runner who brought home Portugal's first Olympic gold medal. The pavilion's exterior is a striking example of Portuguese Azulejo art, featuring ornate blue tilework depicting scenes from the country's history. Today, Pavilhão Carlos Lopes continues to be a significant part of Lisbon's landscape, serving as a versatile venue for sports, exhibitions, and cultural events.
Further along, I discovered Praia no Parque, a restaurant boasting panoramic views of Espelho d'água do Parque – an elaborate fountain graced with a classical statue.
The Observation Deck: Unparalleled City Views
Reaching the park's pinnacle, the Observation Deck, I was rewarded with breathtaking cityscapes. Parque Eduardo VII's most captivating feature unfolds from here: meticulously manicured hedges form intricate geometric patterns, creating a mesmerizing mosaic effect stretching down the park's expanse.
Estufa Fria: A Botanical Wonderland
Descending the other side of the park, I ventured into the Estufa Fria, a sprawling "cold greenhouse." This botanical haven is a captivating contrast to the city's bustle. As I wandered the pathways, I encountered exotic ferns, cascading waterfalls, and vibrant flowers from around the world. Keep an eye out for the resident ducks and birds, and enjoy navigating the waterways using the charming stepping stones. Be sure to check out my walkthrough video for a closer look.
The Estufa Fria boasts a unique origin story. Once an abandoned basalt quarry, its natural spring and shaded environment transformed it into an accidental plant sanctuary. Architect Raul Carapinha saw its potential and designed the grand cold greenhouse, which officially opened in 1933. The complex expanded in 1975 with the Estufa Quente (hot greenhouse) and Estufa Doce (sweet greenhouse), showcasing a wider biodiversity of plants. Today, the Estufa Fria serves as a lush botanical escape within the heart of Lisbon, offering a fascinating blend of natural elements and architectural design.
The Estufa Fria is a paradise for plant enthusiasts! Wander its pathways and discover a lush collection of ferns from around the globe, including delicate maidenhair ferns and massive Australian tree ferns. Feast your eyes on tropical beauties like vibrant bromeliads, sprawling philodendrons, and orchids with their exquisite blooms. You might even stumble upon carnivorous plants, like the Venus flytrap or pitcher plant. The greenhouse also features flowering shrubs like azaleas and camellias, adding pops of color. While the Estufa Doce is the primary home for cacti and succulents, you'll still find some fascinating specimens within the cold greenhouse.
For more info and pictures of Estufa Fria, check out our other blog post: https://www.portugaltravelnow.com/post/green-houses-lisbon-discover-the-estufa-fria
Why You Should Visit Parque Eduardo VII
Parque Eduardo VII is a true Lisbon treasure, offering a delightful mix of urban escape, historical intrigue, and botanical wonders. Whether you seek breathtaking views from the Observation Deck, a moment of tranquility in the Estufa Fria amidst exotic plants, a glimpse of Portuguese architectural charm at Pavilhão Carlos Lopes, or a simple picnic surrounded by the park's geometric beauty, Parque Eduardo VII promises an unforgettable experience in the heart of Lisbon.
tchau!
Micah
