Category: Nature > Park
District: Coimbra > Coimbra > Coimbra > Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz Park, also widely known by its popular name Jardim da Sereia (Mermaid Garden), is located in the city of Coimbra, integrated into its urban fabric, in the area corresponding to the former parish of Santa Cruz. Its main entrance is situated in Praça da República, a central and very busy area of the city.
The space develops along the natural inclination of the terrain, creating different levels and environments throughout its path.
The origin of this space dates back to the 12th century, being part of the Quinta de Santa Cruz, which was attributed to the Canons Regular of Saint Augustine. However, its transformation into the format we know today is mainly due to D. Gaspar da Encarnação in the 18th century.
Friar Gaspar, an important figure linked to the reform of the Santa Cruz Monastery, envisioned this park as a place dedicated to leisure, rest, and meditation for the canons, integrating recreational elements such as the historic Jogo da Péla (Ball Game) court.
While exploring Santa Cruz Park, visitors can observe the strong influence of the Baroque style in its landscape design. This inspiration is evident in the defined axes, the symmetry of some areas, and, above all, in the decorative elements that adorn the park.
The main entrance, facing Praça da República, is marked by an imposing three-arched portico, topped by allegorical sculptures representing Faith, Charity, and Hope, flanked by small pavilions that originally featured mural paintings.
Water is a central element in the park's composition, appearing in various forms that enrich the environment. Immediately after the Jogo da Péla court, a scenic waterfall, constructed with rock formations imitating natural caves, captures attention.
Upon ascending, one finds the famous Nogueira Fountain, popularly called Mermaid Fountain. This fountain is distinguished by the sculpture of a triton opening the mouth of a fish or dolphin, from which water spouts, into a shell-shaped basin. The presence of this mythological figure gave the garden its popular name.
Along the avenues and stair landings, other spouts and basins appear, culminating in a circular lake with a small island in the center, where another fountain is located, adding freshness and movement to the landscaping.
Santa Cruz Park is a green space with considerable botanical diversity, offering refuge to various plant species. While strolling, one can observe a variety of trees, some large, such as cedars and pines, as well as species of maples, laurels, and various shrubby and herbaceous plants.
This plant richness, combined with the presence of water, creates a suitable habitat for animal life. The park hosts different types of birds, such as the blackbird, and also amphibians in the wetter areas, contributing to a dynamic natural environment in the heart of the city.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 40.2094929,-8.4189817
Coordinates DMS: 40°12'34.2"N 08°25'8.3"W
Weather Coimbra
On-duty Pharmacy Coimbra
