Category: Nature > Park
District: Aveiro > São João da Madeira > São João da Madeira > Travessas
This park is located in the city of São João da Madeira, integrated into the Travessas area. It develops along the course of a river that crosses the city, historically known in the area as Rio Ul, although it actually corresponds to the Antuã River in its initial stretch.
Its position follows the north-south axis of the locality, extending along a significant part of the river's course within the urban perimeter.
With an area of around three hundred thousand square meters, the Rio Ul Urban Park stands out for its vast scale. It is recognized as one of the largest urban green spaces in Portugal, offering a sense of openness and contact with nature in the heart of the city.
This dimension allows for the creation of varied environments, from more open areas to densely vegetated zones, providing different experiences for visitors.
The park's design was conceived to enhance the presence of water, following the riverbanks. The structure includes the adaptation and widening of the channel at some points, as well as the construction of weirs, which create small reflective pools along the course.
The park features various paved paths that invite outdoor activities. It is a suitable space for peaceful walks, runs, or bike rides, allowing visitors to comfortably explore its expanse.
The natural component is fundamental in this park. It houses thousands of trees, many of which are native species, contributing to the creation of a diverse urban ecosystem. The varied vegetation and the presence of the river create an interesting habitat for local fauna.
It is a place where various species of birds and other small wildlife can be observed, enriching the experience for those seeking closer contact with nature within the urban environment.
During the park's construction, an old water mill was discovered. This element was recovered and integrated into the space, serving as a relic of the past and of the traditional activities linked to the river and the rural landscape that once characterized the area. Its presence adds a historical layer to the park's modernity.
The creation of the Rio Ul Urban Park involved a significant environmental recovery project, including the depollution of part of the river to improve its water quality. This effort underscores the importance given to the health of the local ecosystem.
Within the park, there is a support building, designated Casa da Natureza (House of Nature), which houses an environmental interpretation center. This space offers information about the park's ecology and the importance of natural resource conservation.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 40.9013296,-8.4820713
Coordinates DMS: 40°54'4.8"N 08°28'55.5"W