Moreira Bridge Park

Category: Nature > Park

District: Porto > Matosinhos > Ponte de Moreira

Location

The Ponte de Moreira Park is located in the locality of Ponte de Moreira, in the municipality of Matosinhos. It is strategically situated on the banks of the Leça River, in an area that, despite presenting urban and industrial characteristics in its surroundings, has transformed into an important green lung. Its position offers privileged access to the river, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in nature within a more urbanized context.

A Space of Natural Rebirth

Inaugurated in 2016, the Ponte de Moreira Park was a pioneer as the first riverside park created on the banks of the Leça River. Its existence is a testament to the profound transformation this river has undergone, leaving behind decades of pollution to become an example of environmental recovery. The park was born from the commitment to ecologically rehabilitate this riparian area, fostering natural regeneration through the planting of native species. Since 2009, various cleaning efforts of the Leça's riverbed and banks, many with the participation of volunteers, have contributed to its revitalization.

Biodiversity by the River

This space, with an area of 34,700 m2, is a true sanctuary of biodiversity. The rehabilitation focused on consolidating a riparian gallery, essential for the health of the fluvial ecosystem. Here, trees such as Ash, Elm, Alder, and various species of Willow thrive. In addition to these, other native trees and shrubs enrich the landscape, such as Portuguese Oak, Cork Oak, Strawberry Tree, and Holly. Walking through the park is an opportunity to observe the local flora's richness up close, a result of continuous conservation and regeneration efforts.

Paths for River Discovery

The Ponte de Moreira Park invites exploration through its pedestrian paths. These are ideal routes for leisurely walks, invigorating runs, or simply for a family outing, always accompanied by the presence of the river. The park is integrated into the ambitious Leça Green Corridor, a project that aims to create a 7-kilometer pedestrian and cycling path. This extension of paths offers a new way to experience the river, promoting direct contact with nature and allowing for more harmonious mobility between Ponte de Moreira and Ponte da Pedra.

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