Lisbon Botanical Garden

The Jardim Botânico de Lisboa, located in the Principe Real district, is one of the green gems of the Portuguese capital, an oasis of tranquility and natural beauty amidst the urban hustle and bustle. Founded in 1878 as part of the Escola Politécnica (now the Faculty of Sciences of the University of Lisbon), the garden was designed by two German botanists, Julius Friedrich Heinrich von Verlot and Edmond Goeze, with the aim of creating an environment for the study of exotic and local plants. The Jardim Botânico covers an area of about four hectares and houses a vast collection of plants from around the world. Its structure is a classic example of a 19th-century botanical garden, with flower beds organized according to the scientific classification of plants. The garden is divided into different sections, each representing a different natural habitat, allowing visitors to explore a variety of ecosystems in one place. One of the most distinctive elements of the Jardim Botânico is its collection of palms, one of the richest and most diverse in Europe. Palms, originating from various tropical and subtropical regions, create an exotic and lush atmosphere, with specimens majestically reaching towards the sky. Among the most notable species are the Jubaea chilensis, the Phoenix canariensis, and the Washingtonia robusta. The garden also houses a series of greenhouses that protect delicate plants requiring special climatic conditions. The greenhouses, built in the late 19th century, are an example of iron and glass architecture typical of the time and contain a variety of tropical and subtropical plants, including ferns, orchids, and bromeliads. These spaces offer an ideal microclimate for the conservation of species that would not otherwise survive outdoors in Lisbon’s Mediterranean climate. Artistically, the garden is a place of great beauty, with winding paths, fountains, and sculptures that harmoniously integrate with the natural landscape. Ancient trees, flower beds, and exotic plants create a charming environment that attracts photographers, artists, and nature lovers. Each season offers a different spectacle, with blooming flowers, changing leaves, and plants displaying their unique characteristics. An interesting anecdote concerns the introduction of the Dracaena draco, known as the Canary Island dragon tree, one of the most iconic plants in the garden. It is said that one of the oldest specimens in the garden was planted by the famous Portuguese botanist Félix Avelar Brotero in the 19th century. This tree, with its prehistoric appearance and massive trunk, has become one of the symbols of the garden and an attraction for visitors.