Évora Public Garden

Category: Nature > Garden

District: Évora > Évora > Évora > São Mamede, Sé, São Pedro e Santo Antão

Location

Located within the walls of Évora, the Public Garden is situated in the heart of the urban fabric, taking advantage of the layout of the ancient bulwarks of the Prince and the Count of Lippe. Its main entrances open onto central streets, such as Rua da República, Largo de São Francisco, and Rua do Raimundo. The presence of its large trees contributes to the city's image, being visible to those observing Évora from outside the walls.

A Romantic Creation of the 19th Century

The conception of this green space dates back to the 19th century, between 1863 and 1870, a result of the vision of the Italian architect Giuseppe Cinatti. Born from an 18th-century concern with the beautification of cities, the Public Garden was initially conceived as a public promenade. Inspired by the model of English parks, Cinatti's project sought to recreate a naturalistic environment, with irregularly laid-out paths and elements that provide surprise effects, evoking a romantic and picturesque aesthetic.

Distinct Zones and Pathways

The garden develops in an irregular plan, extending from east to west, and is divided into two main, albeit interconnected, zones. In the more eastern section, designated the Public Garden, a wide central dirt axis stands out, flanked by red wooden benches. This area is enriched by a hexagonal bandstand, with a stone base and a Moorish-inspired roof, adorned with tiles. Irregularly shaped ponds, with limestone borders, punctuate the flowerbeds. The western section, known as the "forest zone," features denser vegetation, with a predominance of autochthonous species, in contrast to the garden's exotic species. Here, secondary paths, sometimes paved with granite slabs, meander through embankments, and there are masonry benches covered with blue and white tiles, as well as a recent wrought-iron pergola, a pleasant place to rest.

Historical and Sculptural Elements

Integrated into the garden's design, the Paço de D. Manuel, with its Manueline architecture, shapes the main path, which bends to contour it. One of the most distinctive and eye-catching elements is the Faux Ruins. These are ruins deliberately created in the 16th century, incorporating a crenellated tower and Mudéjar-style windows, originating from the old Paço dos Vimioso. This scenic ensemble, besides accentuating the romantic taste for the medieval and the picturesque, offers an elevated point that invites observation of the surroundings. Furthermore, the garden houses several sculptural pieces, including a statue of Vasco da Gama, a bust of the poetess Florbela Espanca, and a tribute to the architect himself, Giuseppe Cinatti.

A Nook for Relaxation

The Public Garden of Évora is a sanctuary of tranquility in the city, ideal for leisurely strolls and moments of rest. In the heart of the forest zone, there is a picnic area, with cement tables and benches, sheltered by the shade of centuries-old trees. Although distinct from the garden's romantic character, a children's playground, accessible by staircases from a transitional area, complements the recreational aspect of the space, offering playful equipment for the younger ones and a circular marble pond, all framed by remarkable trees.

License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt