Marquis of Pombal Garden

Category: Nature > Garden

District: Porto > Porto > Porto > Marquês

Location

The Marquês de Pombal Garden is located in one of Porto's most emblematic squares, in the area known as Marquês. This square functions as a central point where various urban arteries converge, connecting different areas of the city. Its position offers a bustling square environment, yet with a green space that invites a pause from the urban pace.

Historical Roots

The origins of this site date back to the early 19th century, when it was known as Largo da Aguardente (Brandy Square). The area played a significant role in Porto's history, serving as one of the city's lines of defense, notably during the French Invasions and the Siege of Porto. It was also an important transit point where taxes were collected on goods entering the city. In 1882, the space was renamed Praça do Marquês de Pombal (Marquês de Pombal Square), in honor of the influential statesman Sebastião José de Carvalho e Melo.

From Romantic Design to Modernity

The garden was inaugurated in 1898, showcasing a romantic character evident in its landscape design. Over the years, the space maintained its relevance as an area for leisure and social gatherings. In 2006, the garden underwent an urban requalification that brought about several changes. One of the most visible elements of this intervention was the installation of a circular fountain, dubbed "Fonte da Confidente" (Confidante Fountain), which has its own history, as it originally belonged to Praça de D. João I.

Characteristic Elements and Atmosphere

Characterized by dense tree cover, the garden features a leafy avenue that provides abundant shade, especially appreciated on hot days. In the center of the space, an iron bandstand stands out, an element that harks back to its founding era and still adorns the site today. In addition to the Confidante Fountain, the garden incorporates other basins with water features that contribute to a tranquil atmosphere. It is a common meeting point for Porto's inhabitants, who enjoy moments of leisure and social interaction there, with groups often seen playing sueca (a card game) and dominoes.

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