City Park of Porto

Category: Nature > Park

District: Porto > Porto > Porto > Castelo do Queijo

Location

Porto City Park is located in the western part of the city, in a vast area that includes the Castelo do Queijo (Cheese Castle) area. Its geographical position is particularly notable for its extension to the Atlantic coast, making it one of the few urban parks in the world with direct access to the sea. This proximity to the ocean gives the park an airy atmosphere and wide views, functioning as a natural transition between the urban fabric and the coastline.

Size and Diversity

With an area extending over 83 hectares, the City Park is recognized as the largest urban park in Portugal. Its landscape design offers a wide variety of natural environments, from extensive lawns ideal for leisure and rest to denser wooded areas and various lakes that punctuate the landscape. An extensive network of paths, totaling about 10 kilometers, allows visitors to explore its vastness and discover different perspectives.

An Integrated Landscape Design

The park was designed by landscape architect Sidónio Pardal with the aim of creating a space that, despite being located within the city, would provide a strong connection to nature. The design incorporates rustic and traditional elements, such as the use of stone in walls and structures, shaping the terrain to create isolated nooks and welcoming environments. This approach results in a park that, in many of its areas, seems distant from the urban surroundings, offering a sense of tranquility and immersion in the natural environment.

Enjoying the Green Space

This vast green space is a privileged location for various outdoor activities. It is highly sought after by those wishing to walk, run, or cycle, taking advantage of its long routes and diverse landscapes. The spacious lawns are perfect for moments of relaxation, picnics, or simply enjoying contact with nature. There are also areas dedicated to team sports, such as football, tennis, and basketball courts, making it a versatile space for active leisure.

Recognition and Value

The design and scale of Porto City Park have earned it significant recognition. It was distinguished by the Order of Engineers as one of the hundred most notable public works built in Portugal during the 20th century. This distinction highlights not only its importance as a leisure space but also its value as an exceptional project of landscape architecture and integration into the urban and natural fabric.

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