Municipal Forest

Category: Nature > Woodland

District: Santarém > Ourém > Nossa Senhora da Piedade

Location

Located in the urban heart of Ourém, in its northern part, the Municipal Forest Park is adjacent to the former Secondary School, a landmark for the locality. Its central location makes it accessible, integrating harmoniously into the city's landscape.

An Urban Green Refuge

With an area of 3.5 hectares, the Municipal Forest Park, officially designated Mata Municipal António Pereira Afonso, constitutes an urban forest park. This space is a true green lung for the city, characterized by the predominant presence of oaks and maritime pines, complemented by a diversity of Mediterranean species, such as olive trees and Buçaco cedars. It functions as an important ecological stronghold for native flora and local avifauna.

Leisure Space and Connection with Nature

The Municipal Forest Park offers visitors an area suitable for leisure and contact with nature. It is possible to enjoy moments of rest in the picnic area, equipped with tables that invite outdoor meals. For those seeking physical activity, there is a small fitness trail. It is in this space that the Ourém Environmental Education Center is also located, a hub dedicated to raising awareness and education on ecological issues.

Legacy and Community Importance

Historically known as the "old Lyceum park," the Municipal Forest Park holds memories for many generations of Ourém residents. Its existence is intrinsically linked to the history of the city and its inhabitants, serving as a place that evokes the community's relationship with its natural environment over time. It is a space with strong symbolic value, considered a vital element for urban quality of life and a testament to the community's connection to its natural heritage.

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