Bensaúde Park

Category: Nature > Garden

District: Lisboa > Lisboa > Lisboa > São Domingos de Benfica

Location

Bensaúde Park is located in the parish of São Domingos de Benfica, in the city of Lisbon. It is positioned between Rua Francisco Baía and Estrada da Luz, nestled within an urban area with easy access.

This green space covers a considerable area within the neighborhood, serving as a landmark and a 'lung' in the surrounding urban environment.

A Historic Estate

This park occupies the area that once belonged to the old Quinta de Santo António das Frechas (Saint Anthony of Frechas Estate), whose origins date back to the 17th century. Over time, the estate had different owners, including the Bensaúde family, who gave it the name by which it is known today.

Subsequently, part of this old estate was adapted and transformed into a public green space, preserving elements of its original design and opening up to the community and visitors as a place for leisure and rest.

Notable Botanical Heritage

Spanning an area of approximately 3.5 hectares, Bensaúde Park preserves a remarkable collection of vegetation, which constitutes one of its greatest attractions. The magnificent avenue of plane trees stands out, accompanying one of the park's main axes and classified for its public interest.

The park also hosts a diversity of other tree species of ecological and landscape value. Among these is what is considered the largest and oldest cork oak in the capital, an imposing tree whose age is estimated at nearly two hundred years, serving as a living landmark of the city's natural history.

Historic Architectural Elements

From the past of the old estate, the park preserves some architectural elements that add a historic and scenic touch to the landscape. One can observe a set of neoclassical-inspired platforms and staircases, which create different levels and perspectives within the space.

These structures lead to a pavilion, which once served as a viewpoint, offering an elevated point to contemplate the park and its surroundings. These elements were designed by a Scottish architect, testifying to different phases of the original estate's history and design.

Leisure and Community Spaces

Bensaúde Park offers distinct areas that invite leisure and outdoor activities. With ample lawn spaces and shaded areas provided by leafy trees, it is a pleasant place to stroll, relax, or have a picnic, enjoying the tranquility that the space offers.

The park also features diverse facilities, including a children's play area, notable for an unusual climbing structure, outdoor fitness equipment, and a dedicated dog area. There is also a space with urban gardens, managed by local residents, which reflects a contemporary use of the green space.

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