Jardim da Cordoaria

The Jardim da Cordoaria, also known as Jardim de João Chagas, is a small, historic city park in the heart of Porto, Portugal. It is located in Campo dos Mártires da Pátria and is surrounded by a variety of historical buildings, including the famous Torre dos Clérigos and the Centro Português de Fotografia. With its beautiful trees, plants, and sculptures, this garden offers a tranquil atmosphere that invites visitors to relax.

History

The garden was originally founded in 1865 by the Visconde de Vilar d'Allen and designed based on plans by the German landscape architect Émile David. Over the years, the garden experienced various changes, including one after a devastating storm in 1941, which significantly affected its appearance. Recent renovations took place as part of the urban transformations for Porto's designation as the European Capital of Culture in 2001, which received mixed reactions from the public.

Attractions

A visit to Jardim da Cordoaria would not be complete without admiring the various sculptures placed throughout the garden. Some of the most notable works include:

• *Abduction of Ganymede* (1898) by António Fernandes de Sá
• *Flora* (1904) by António Teixeira Lopes
• *Ramalho Ortigão* (1909) by Leopoldo de Almeida
• *António Nobre* (1926) by Tomás Costa
• *Thirteen Laughing at Each Other* (2001) by Juan Muñoz

The park is not only known for its artworks but also for the blooming rhododendrons, magnolias, and camellias that provide an extraordinary display of color during the spring months.

Costs and Accessibility

There is no admission fee for the Jardim da Cordoaria, making it an ideal destination for travelers who want to enjoy the beauty of nature without any cost. Chairs and benches invite visitors to take a break and enjoy the surroundings. The park is easily accessible even in wet conditions, encouraging visitors to explore it at any time of the year.

Reviews

The experiences of other visitors to Jardim da Cordoaria are overwhelmingly positive. Many described the park as a great place to take a break from the urban hustle and bustle. The contemporary sculptures and the serene atmosphere were particularly highlighted. Additionally, the proximity to cafes and other dining establishments in the area makes the visit even more enjoyable. Various visitors commented on the beautiful trees and the overall relaxation that the park offers, even though some parts were under construction during their visits.

Overall, Jardim da Cordoaria is a unique destination that offers both relaxation and cultural inspiration. Anyone visiting Porto should not miss this green oasis.

For more information and to plan your visit, you can click here.