Tapada das NecessidadesNecessidades Park

Category: Nature > Game Preserve

District: Lisboa > Lisboa > Lisboa

Location

Located in Lisbon, in the Alcântara area, the Tapada das Necessidades extends as a vast walled green space, adjacent to the historic Necessidades Palace. Its location on a south and southwest-facing slope once offered breathtaking views over the Alcântara valley, the Tagus river, and the sea, creating a highly beautiful scenery. Although the surrounding landscape has evolved with urban growth, the interior of the Tapada remains a tranquil refuge, protected by its secular walls.

This garden is located in the western part of the city, bordered by some streets that have developed around it over the centuries, yet its ancient walls continue to preserve its reserved nature. The area benefits from favorable sun exposure and natural protection from dominant winds, contributing to its welcoming and serene environment.

A Historical Legacy

The history of Tapada das Necessidades dates back to 1742, when D. João V acquired these lands to build a royal complex that included a hermitage, a convent, and a palace. Initially known as "Cerca das Necessidades" (Necessities Enclosure), this property transformed over time, becoming a Royal Estate (Quinta Real) and, later, the "Tapada" (Walled Park). It served as a residence for several Portuguese monarchs, witnessing important moments in the country's history, including royal weddings celebrated there in the 19th century.

With the expulsion of religious orders in 1834, the adjacent convent became part of the palace complex. Subsequently, under the influence of D. Fernando II, who was passionate about botany and gardening, the Tapada underwent significant landscape transformations. This royal legacy is visible in the different garden styles that coexist in this space, reflecting the trends and tastes of each era.

Elements of Landscape Architecture

The Tapada das Necessidades features a remarkable diversity of garden styles, resulting from interventions over the centuries. Visitors can appreciate the geometric Baroque-style terraces, a legacy of the initial project, which are connected by staircases and once opened onto a central lake. In contrast, the landscape garden, in English style, introduced by D. Fernando II and the gardener Jean Bonnard, offers winding paths and more natural secluded spots.

Among the prominent architectural elements is the Circular Greenhouse, an imposing iron and glass structure built by D. Pedro V, which housed collections of exotic plants. Other notable constructions include the Casa de Fresco (Cool House), which offered an observation point and a cool environment through an ingenious water system, and the Casa do Regalo (Gift House), formerly Queen D. Amélia's painting studio. Three lakes (the Lake of the Palm Tree, the Lake of the Strelitzias, and the Lake of the Duke of Lafões) punctuate the space, surrounded by lush vegetation and some statues, such as those of the Virtues and the bust of D. João V.

Natural Richness and Leisure Environment

Spanning about ten hectares, the Tapada das Necessidades is a green lung in the city of Lisbon. Its woodland is classified for the public interest of many of its tree specimens, some of them rare, such as a dragon tree, carob trees, false pepper trees, and a Japanese pagoda tree. This natural environment provides significant biodiversity, making it possible to observe various bird species that find refuge here.

The extensive lawns and abundant tree cover invite moments of tranquility, whether for a relaxing stroll, reading a book, or simply enjoying the quietness of the place. The presence of a fountain and a waterfall contributes to the serene atmosphere, offering an experience of contact with nature in the heart of the Portuguese capital.

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