Gazebo Garden

Category: Nature > Garden

District: Faro > Tavira > Tavira > Santa Maria e Santiago

Location

Situated in the downtown area of Tavira, in the parish of Santa Maria e Santiago, the Jardim do Coreto (Bandstand Garden), also known as Tavira Public Garden, is located on the right bank of the Gilão River. Its central position offers a tranquil spot in the heart of the urban area, inviting a relaxing break amidst the city's surrounding landscape.

Origin and Historical Legacy

Considered Tavira's oldest public garden, its history dates back to the 19th century, reflecting the Romantic architecture of the period. Its creation in 1890 was part of a broader urban modernization plan, complementing infrastructures such as the then-new Mercado da Ribeira (Riverside Market), and offering a new social gathering place for the population. Archaeological investigations revealed that the area occupied by the garden was not residential, but rather a space where 'tercenas' (old granaries by the river) once existed.

The Bandstand and its Artistic Elements

At the heart of this green space stands its iconic bandstand, the element that gave it its name. Built at the end of the 19th century, this example of 19th-century iron architecture was manufactured in Porto and transported by sea to Tavira. In 1944, a lake was added to surround the bandstand, enriching the environment with the presence of fish and turtles. The garden also houses two busts, by sculptor Raul Xavier, which honor notable figures native to Tavira: António Cabreira, a mathematician and publicist, and Isidoro Manuel Pires, a local poet and politician.

Environment and Vegetation

The Jardim do Coreto is characterized by its plant diversity, which contributes to an exuberant and pleasant environment. Among the tree species, one can observe date palms, Canary Island palms, white poplars, and European nettle trees. In the flowerbeds, the presence of agapanthus, jasmines, dahlias, and oleanders complements the landscape. The paved paths and benches distributed under the shade of the trees invite tranquil strolls and moments of rest, allowing visitors to enjoy the serene atmosphere of the place.

A Cultural Meeting Point

Since its foundation, the Jardim do Coreto has played a central role in Tavira's social life. Once a stage for concerts and performances that gathered the community, it remains an important cultural hub to this day. This space continues to host various events and social activities, solidifying its identity as a true "heart of the city," where history, nature, and culture intertwine.

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