Water Gardens

Category: Nature > Garden

District: Lisboa > Lisboa > Lisboa > Parque das Nações

Location

The Water Gardens are located in the riverside area of Parque das Nações, in Lisbon. This site is integrated into a modern urban area, characterized by wide open spaces and a direct connection to the Tagus River. Its position provides a pleasant walking environment, framed by the tranquility of the estuary.

The Water Journey

These gardens were conceived with a clear intention: to celebrate the ancient relationship between humans and water. The space designs a symbolic path that represents the flow of a hydrographic basin, from the source to its mouth in an estuary. Walking through these gardens invites observation of water in its various forms and reflection on its vital importance and human ingenuity in its management.

Design and Distinct Environments

The conception of the Water Gardens is the result of a collaboration between landscape architect João Gomes da Silva and artist Fernanda Fragateiro. The fusion of landscape design with works of art, such as sculptures and tile panels, enriches the site's narrative. The garden's layout unfolds into areas with their own characteristics: the Palm Garden, with its imposing trees and a wall fountain, simulates the origin of the aquatic journey. Further on, one finds the Mediterranean Orchard, distinguishable by its warm tones and fruit trees. The Waterfall Building, a striking structure, offers water jets that promote interaction.

The Heritage of Hydraulic Engineering

The aquatic journey culminates in Ulysses Lake and the Hydraulic Garden. The latter functions as an open-air museum, exhibiting a collection of devices and machines developed by humanity to harness and control water over time. Through wooden walkways and small islets that meander over the lake, visitors can observe the evolution of hydraulic systems, in a peaceful environment that connects the history of engineering with the natural landscape.

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