Wondering where to escape the Lisbon bustle? Welcome to Jardim Mário Soares. It is also known as Jardim do Campo Grande. This garden offers a refreshing green space right in the city center.
Jardim Mário Soares stretches impressively. It covers over 60,000 square meters. That makes it one of Lisbon’s largest gardens. Imagine that it stretches 1,200 meters long and 200 meters wide.
Once upon a time, this area was called Campo de Alvalade in the 16th century. Later, in 1792, plans emerged to create a garden. The aim was to establish a wooded area with a horse racing circuit.
In 1816, Jardim Mário Soares hosted its first horse races. Today, you can still find equestrian contests nearby. They take place behind the Museu da Cidade. It is a nod to the garden’s sporting past.
In 1869, a major addition enhanced the garden’s charm. The main lake was constructed. Romantic boat rides became popular. Nobles and royals enjoyed these serene moments on the water.
The garden faced a setback in 1941. A cyclone devastated the area. However, recovery came swiftly. In 1945, architect Francisco Keil do Amaral designed a renovation project. This included expanding the garden and adding sports facilities like a skating rink and tennis courts.
Divided by Avenida do Brasil, Jardim Mário Soares consists of two zones. The north zone spans six hectares. The south zone covers five hectares. Each offers unique attractions.
In the south zone, you will find a playground. Also located here is the Campo Grande Swimming Pool. The building of the old baths is also in this area.
The north zone boasts paddle tennis courts. The Kaleidoscope Building offers a café, restaurant, bookstore, and study room. You can rent boats to paddle on the lake. The Terraza del Lago Restaurant sits on an island in the main lake.
The Jardim Mário Soares is home to diverse botanical specimens. Rare plants thrive here. Canary Island palms, pines, eucalyptus, and acacias add to the lush scenery. Many bird species nest in the garden. Goldfinches, sparrows, and warblers can be spotted.
Several statues adorn the garden. At the northern end stand statues of D. Afonso Henriques and D. João I. These figures represent Portugal’s early monarchs.
In the south lake, a caricature statue adds a touch of whimsy. Near the southern end stands a monument to Rafael Bordalo Pinheiro. He was a famous humorist and caricaturist.
Jardim Mário Soares is not just a park. It is a place to relax. It is a place to appreciate nature. It is a place to remember Portuguese history.