Category: Nature > Park
District: Vila Real > Vila Real > Vila Real > Pé de Cavalo
Parque Corgo extends across the city of Vila Real, embracing both banks of the river that gives it its name. From the Timpeira Bridge to the area near the Metallic and Santa Margarida bridges, this green space integrates into the urban landscape, including the Pé de Cavalo area. Its size and location make it a central point for visitors to the city, offering direct contact with nature in the heart of Vila Real.
Inaugurated in 2005, Parque Corgo represents the largest green area in Vila Real, with approximately 33 hectares. It was designed to be a place of communion with nature, providing a tranquil environment to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. It is a vital space for the inhabitants of Vila Real, who often seek it out for walking, running, or simply enjoying moments of rest, evidencing a deep connection between the community and the river.
The park was planned to facilitate the exploration of the Corgo riverbanks, offering a network of pedestrian paths extending for several kilometers. Seven pedestrian bridges were built to connect the two banks, allowing for fluid and continuous crossing of the space. These structures invite the discovery of different perspectives of the river and the surrounding landscape, making the visiting experience diverse and accessible.
Within the park, there is a space dedicated to urban ecology that features an exhibition about the Corgo River. This exhibition addresses the origin and evolution of the river, as well as its historical connection to the city of Vila Real, from the old washerwomen to the Biel hydroelectric power station, a landmark in the history of public electrification in the country. It is a place that promotes understanding of local biodiversity and serves as a meeting point for discussing environmental projects and hosting thematic exhibitions.
Parque Corgo stands out for its "Art in the Park" initiative, a project that integrated various works of art into the natural landscape. Murals, screen prints, and installations, created by several artists, celebrate the region's biodiversity, depicting species such as the Iberian wolf, the blue butterfly, or the salamander. These artistic elements enrich the experience, inviting close observation of flora and fauna and making the visit a cultural and natural journey.
The park offers various sports and leisure facilities, such as a multi-sports court, a skate park, and a climbing wall, which encourage active lifestyles. Furthermore, it is a dynamic stage for public events. Annually, it hosts a music festival held on the left bank of the river, taking advantage of the natural setting. It also serves as the venue for a sports tournament that brings together various modalities and activities for all ages, reinforcing the park's role as a center for community gathering and activity.
Developments are planned to expand Parque Corgo to the south, extending its reach and opening up new areas for exploration. This project includes the recovery of old trails and the creation of new wooden boardwalks and metal bridges in steeper areas. The aim is to make portions of the Corgo river, previously difficult to access, more accessible, connecting the city's banks more comprehensively through a green route. This expansion will also facilitate access to the historic Biel Power Station, which will become a point of interest integrated into these new natural trails.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 41.307932330939, -7.7296587723757
Coordinates DMS: 41°18'28.6"N 07°43'46.8"W
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