Quinta da Granja Urban Park

Category: Nature > Park

District: Lisboa > Lisboa > Lisboa

Location

Situated in the Quinta da Granja urbanisation, in Lisbon, this park is located in the Benfica neighbourhood, strategically positioned between Avenidas do Colégio Militar and Lusíada. Despite its urban surroundings, Parque Urbano da Quinta da Granja provides a tranquil refuge, offering the sensation of an authentic "countryside in the city" within the Portuguese capital.

A Historical Legacy

Parque Urbano da Quinta da Granja is part of an area that dates back to the 17th century, when it belonged to a religious order. Over time, the property was acquired by the Van Zeller family in the 19th century, who profoundly restructured it for vine production, an agricultural activity then dominant in the region. Later, the quinta passed into the possession of the Mesquita family, whose descendants still own it today. The urban park, in its current form, resulted from the acquisition of a portion of this historic estate by the Lisbon City Council.

Landscape and Environment

With an approximate area of 3.3 hectares, Parque Urbano da Quinta da Granja was designed to harmonise nature with the urban environment. Its organic design integrates large grassy areas and terrain modelling that invites exploration and offers diverse perspectives of the space. Throughout the park, distinct paths for pedestrians and cyclists are found, laid side by side and flanked by a variety of arboreal and herbaceous vegetation. This careful planning creates different sensory environments, with a rich palette of green tones, aromas, and contrasts between light and shadow, provided by the trees and shrubs.

The Urban Garden

One of the unique aspects of Parque Urbano da Quinta da Granja is its urban garden. This space not only contributes to environmental sustainability, improving air and soil quality through organic practices, but also establishes a bridge between city inhabitants and agricultural activities. The garden offers an opportunity for direct contact with fresh food production, contributing to the physical and psychological well-being of those who participate or simply visit this area.

Leisure Opportunities

Parque da Quinta da Granja is an invitation to practice various outdoor activities. It is a suitable place for those who wish to run, walk, or cycle in a serene environment. Its vast grassy areas are ideal for moments of relaxation, allowing visitors to stretch out, read a book, or enjoy the quietness. The park also includes a playground and fitness equipment, providing options for fun and exercise for different ages. The atmosphere of tranquility found here allows one to enjoy the space as a true rural retreat, away from the city hustle.

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