Park of Virtues

Category: Nature > Park

District: Porto > Porto > Porto > Virtudes

Location

The Parque das Virtudes is located in the heart of Porto, in the area that gives it its name, Virtudes. Integrated into the city's historic center, this green space is nestled on a hillside, providing a unique perspective on the urban and natural surroundings. Its terraced layout offers different observation points as the park is explored.

Access to the park can be made from Rua de Azevedo de Albuquerque, on the lower part, or from the upper area, behind the Palace of Justice. This dual entrance allows the site to be discovered in various ways, progressively revealing its layers and views.

A Green Legacy

The history of Parque das Virtudes dates back to the 19th century, occupying land that once belonged to the Companhia Hortícola Portuense. Its original design is attributed to José Marques Loureiro, a renowned landscape gardener of the time, who conceived the park with a terraced structure. In 1965, the site was acquired by the Porto City Council and, later, in 1998, it benefited from recovery works that enhanced its beauty and functionality, while maintaining its original identity.

Views that Inspire

One of the most striking features of Parque das Virtudes is its stunning panoramic view. Due to its terraced layout, almost every point in the park offers a wide and unparalleled vista. From there, it is possible to contemplate the historic Alfândega, the winding Douro River, and the landscape of Vila Nova de Gaia on the opposite bank. The location is particularly appreciated by those seeking a moment of tranquility, observing the riverside activity and the sunset over the river.

Botanical Treasures

The park is home to a remarkable diversity of tree species, a reflection of its past connected to horticulture. Among its flora, the imposing Ginkgo biloba stands out, considered the largest specimen of this species in Portugal, with about 35 meters in height and classified as a tree of public interest. In addition, specimens of Chorisia speciosa, also in the process of classification, can be found. The park's botanical richness invites a stroll among ancient trees and other varieties that contribute to its green and serene environment.

The Charm of the Fountain

Inside Parque das Virtudes is the Chafariz das Virtudes (Virtudes Fountain), an element that complements the beauty of the garden. This fountain, classified as a national monument, is an architectural point of interest that adds cultural value to the space. Its presence and style, combined with the surrounding vegetation, create an inviting atmosphere for a moment of pause and contemplation.

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