“Picnic anyone?” I thought to myself while gazing upon this Coreto das Merendas. This spot offers respite from the bustling city. It invites us to pause and appreciate a simpler time.
The Coreto das Merendas. It is more than just a picnic site. It is a reminder of Lisbon’s dedication to community and leisure.
Imagine Lisbon long ago. People sought refuge from the city’s hustle. They found solace in green spaces. Monsanto Park became this refuge. It offered cool breezes and stunning views.
The area was once barren. It suffered from deforestation and mining. In the 1930s, a transformation began. Duarte Pacheco spearheaded a reforesting project. He worked with architect Keil do Amaral. Local farmers and even prisoners helped plant trees. Monsanto Park became Lisbon’s green lung.
Monsanto Park has picnic areas. Vila Guine is one. Another is Parque da Pedra. Also popular are Parque de Merendas do Moinho do Penedo and Zona Recreativa do Calhau. Mata de Sao Domingos and Parque de Merendas do Alvito are great. The Coreto das Merendas fits perfectly. It is an ideal picnic spot.
Interestingly, Monsanto Park hosted Formula One races. The Circuito de Monsanto held races in the 1950s. Sir Stirling Moss won the Portuguese Grand Prix in 1959 here.
Another unique feature was the Restaurante Panorâmico de Monsanto. It opened in 1968. It had five floors and panoramic views. It closed after two years. It served as a storehouse and nightclub. It was abandoned in 2001. It briefly reopened as a viewpoint but closed again in 2021.
Today, Monsanto Park is a protected area. It includes a municipal camping park. Also, you find Parque do Alvito and Parque do Alto da Serafina. Parque dos Moinhos de Santana is another attraction. The Ecological Park covers 50 hectares.
As you sit here at the Coreto das Merendas, consider Lisbon’s story. It is a city that values both progress and preservation. This picnic site invites you to relax. Enjoy nature’s beauty. Reflect on Lisbon’s rich history.