Jardim Botânico (Botanical Garden), Coimbra
The Jardim Botânico (Botanical Garden) in Coimbra is the oldest in Portugal and is associated with the nearby University of Coimbra.
History
The Jardim Botânico was established in 1772 by the Marquis de Pombal on land previously owned by Benedictine monks. The garden covers about 13 hectares. The purpose of the garden was to supplement the study of medicine and natural history at the University of Coimbra as medicinal plants were grown and exotic species, brought back from Portugal's overseas colonies, were planted.
The Botanical Garden's main glass house (now undergoing renovation) dates from 1856 - indeed this was one of the first buildings in Portugal to use iron in its superstructure.
The garden is situated adjacent to the Aqueduto de São Sebastião (San Sebastian Aqueduct), built over what was once a Roman aqueduct in the 16th century. It is thought the prolific Italian architect Filippo Terzi had a hand in its construction. The graceful arches of the aqueduct carrying water into the city help to fuel the city's growth at the time.
A seed bank and associated catalogue were begun in 1868 and continues to the present time. This work has helped to conserve a number of rare species.
The Jardim Botânico in Coimbra contains an orchard, a bamboo grove, a Neoclassical central square with fountain and ornamental terrace.
There are beds of medicinal plants, ornamental flower beds and a tropical corner.
The large wood which forms the majority of the area of the Botanical Garden includes the Sky Garden - a fun adventure through the tree tops using zip lines to bring out your hidden Tarzan.
Also of note is a statue of Júlio Henriques, who became head of the Jardim Botânico in 1873, and did much to encourage exchanges with other botanical gardens and to bring specimens to Coimbra gathered in Brazil and other overseas Portuguese possessions at the time.
The 19th century Neoclassical wrought iron main gate is a wonderful example of its kind and was forged using iron and bronze.
The Jardim Botânico is a pleasant place to stroll in any season.
Access
Jardim Botânico da Universidade de Coimbra (www.uc.pt/jardimbotanico)
Calçada Martim de Freitas
3000-456 Coimbra, Portugal
Tel: 239 855 215
Hours: 9 am-5.30 pm 1 October - 31 March; 9 am-8 pm; 1 April - 30 September.
Admission: Free.
Nearby
Within walking distance of the Jardim Botânico are the Sé Velha, Sé Nova, the Museu Nacional de Machado de Castro and the Coimbra Science Museum (Museu da Ciência da Universidade de Coimbra).
