Gulbenkian Garden

Category: Nature > Garden

District: Lisboa > Lisboa > Lisboa > Campo Pequeno

Location

Situated in the Campo Pequeno area, in the heart of Lisbon, the Gulbenkian Garden offers a tranquil refuge amidst the city. This green space extends into a vibrant urban area, providing a serene contrast to the dynamic city environment.

Its central location facilitates the integration of a visit with the exploration of other aspects of Lisbon life, serving as an accessible point of calm amidst the urban hustle and bustle.

Conception and Natural Environment

The Gulbenkian Garden is the result of the vision of landscape architects António Viana Barreto and Gonçalo Ribeiro Telles, who, from 1957 onwards, conceived a space for harmonious coexistence with nature. With a considerable area, this garden hosts a remarkable diversity of plant and animal species, distributed organically.

Inside, it's possible to discover a serene lake, dotted with small streams, and explore landscaped terraces that invite contemplation. The intertwining paths through the trees allow for an immersive stroll, revealing different perspectives of its natural richness. The garden also includes an open-air amphitheater, designed to host cultural events on mild evenings.

Legacy and Cultural Value

Recognized for its uniqueness and importance, the Gulbenkian Garden, together with the Foundation's building, was classified as a National Monument in 2010. This distinction underscores its relevance as a remarkable example of landscape architecture and as an undeniable cultural heritage for the Portuguese capital.

Its design is not only aesthetic but also functional, serving as a natural stage for culture and leisure. The garden is a testament to the integration of art, nature, and society, reflecting the legacy of an ambitious project for the city of Lisbon.

An Evolving Space

In recent years, the garden has been subject to an expansion project, with the aim of further enriching its area and diversity. The vision for this expansion, led by landscape architect Vladimir Djurovic, foresees the creation of an area exclusively dedicated to native plant species from the Lisbon region, aiming to foster biodiversity and serve as a "small urban forest".

The new configuration of the space was designed to include different levels and environments, inviting a continuous discovery experience. This evolution reflects a commitment to valuing natural heritage and creating environments that encourage exploration and appreciation of nature within the metropolis.

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