Monte Real Thermal Park

Category: Nature > Park

District: Leiria > Leiria > Monte Real > Termas de Monte Real

Location

The Monte Real Thermal Park is located in the urbanization of Termas de Monte Real, which is part of the locality of Monte Real, in the municipality of Leiria. Situated in an urban environment, yet with a prominent presence, the park welcomes visitors through a portal that opens onto a pathway. This pathway is a long avenue, approximately five hundred meters in length, lined with trees such as eucalyptus and leafy plane trees, offering a shady and pleasant route that leads to the heart of the thermal complex.

This vast green area of twenty-four hectares, which includes forest and garden, envelops the complex of thermal buildings, providing a natural and serene setting that contributes to the distinctive atmosphere of the Termas de Monte Real area.

Historical Origins and Legend

The history of Monte Real Thermal Park dates back to ancient times, with evidence of its waters being used as early as the Roman era. Proof of this is the discovery of a Roman altar (arula) and ancient coins near the spring, suggesting the existence of a cult to a deity linked to the waters, perhaps Fontana. This ancestral legacy confers a profound historical dimension to the site.

In addition to the historical facts, a popular legend enriches the narrative of the place: it is said that Queen Saint Isabel, during her stays in Monte Real with King D. Diniz, distributed the thermal waters to those who sought her help, perpetuating the connection of these springs to well-being and healing throughout the centuries.

The Landscape Legacy

The Monte Real Thermal Park, as it is known today, began to take shape in the 20th century. After the acquisition of the thermal springs by a local industrialist around 1916, the area underwent remarkable development. It was at this time that the imposing access avenue was created, transforming the natural surroundings into a recreational park.

The landscape design emphasizes the presence of a diversity of ornamental and shade trees, such as pines, beeches, eucalyptus, and acacias, which contribute to the density and beauty of the forest. The park is an open space for recreation and tranquil walks, with pedestrian paths that wind through the woods, inviting moments of rest in contact with nature.

Chapel and Heritage

Within the Thermal Park, the Chapel of Santa Rita de Cássia stands out. Initially housed in an annex of the bathhouses in 1927, a dedicated building for the chapel was constructed in 1938, surrounded by trees and flowers, in a particularly beautiful setting.

This chapel, where daily masses are usually celebrated, is an element that complements the character of the park, uniting the natural dimension of the green space with a valuable architectural and cultural heritage. Its existence underlines Monte Real's long tradition as a place of retreat and well-being, where nature and spirituality coexist.

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