This is the oldest botanical garden in the country, laid out on two
levels in 1768 as part of Ajuda Palace.
Its collection of plants grew to
reach around 5000 species, but in 1808 the Napoleonic invaders took more
than 1500 specimens to Paris.
Despite this loss, today there are still
plants from several of Portugal's former colonies, some centuries-old trees,
and is still an elegant place, with statues and a marvelous Baroque fountain
decorated with serpents, fish, sea horses, and mythical creatures. There
are also some grand views over Belem, the Tagus River and the 25 de Abril
Bridge.
Get to the Ajuda Botanical Garden by riding Lisbon's metro and buses for free with the Lisboa Card.
Where: Calçada da Ajuda, Belem
How: Tram 18 or walk up from the Coaches Museum.
When: 9AM-6PM (Closed Wed.)
What: www.jardimbotanicodajuda.com
Ajuda
Palace - An extravagant royal palace.
Jeronimos
Monastery - A World Heritage monument; Vasco da Gama's resting place.
Belem
Tower - The city's icon; a symbol of the Age of Discovery.
Discoveries
Monument - The world's explorers in stone.
Berardo Museum - World-class collection of modern art.
Coaches
Museum - The world's largest collection of magnificent royal coaches.
Maritime
Museum - The story of Portugal's pioneering role in world exploration at the sea.
Archaeology
Museum - Archaeological finds from over the centuries.
Belem Cultural
Center - Modern cultural center with regular exhibitions and events.
Tropical
Garden - Beautiful garden with rare plants from around the world.
Belem
Palace - The home of Portugal's President.
Memoria
Church - Elegant neoclassical church.
25
de Abril Bridge - Golden Gate's twin sister.
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