Alto de Santa Catarina Garden / Adamastor

Category: Nature > Garden

District: Lisboa > Lisboa > Lisboa

Location

This garden is located in the city of Lisbon, in the Santa Catarina area, rising above one of the capital's emblematic hills. Its position offers a privileged perspective over a significant part of the urban and riverside landscape, being easily accessible on foot through the streets and alleys that characterize this historic area.

A Panoramic Perspective

From the Jardim do Alto de Santa Catarina, an extensive panorama unfolds, embracing the Tagus River, the 25 de Abril Bridge, and the south bank, including the city of Almada. The view provides a unique setting to observe the city's movement and the estuary's vastness, making it a suitable place for moments of contemplation and for capturing images of the Lisbon landscape.

The Adamastor Monument

In the heart of this garden stands a monument dedicated to Adamastor, the legendary figure who personifies the dangers and mysteries of the sea, immortalized in the epic poem Os Lusíadas by Luís Vaz de Camões. Unveiled in 1927, this blue marble sculpture is a creation of the artist Júlio Vaz Júnior, and rests upon a set of rocks, giving it a striking presence in the space.

The Creation of the Garden

The history of this green space dates back to the 19th century. Around 1877, the Lisbon City Council decided to create a public garden on this site, rejecting a private project for the construction of a large building. Thus, what could have been another edifice became a meeting and leisure spot for the city's inhabitants, maintaining its function as a public space to this day.

Atmosphere and Characteristics

The Jardim do Alto de Santa Catarina, despite its modest size, offers a welcoming and tranquil atmosphere. It comprises landscaped areas, a small wooded mound, and a paved area equipped with railings that delimit the viewpoint. The simplicity of its design invites a pause, allowing visitors to appreciate the serenity of the space while enjoying the surrounding scenery.

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