Jardim da Estrela, Lisbon
History
The Jardim da Estrela, located between the 18th century church of the Basilica da Estrela and the English Cemetery (Cemiterio dos Ingleses) is a pleasant and relaxing public space, and one of the Portuguese capital's favorite open spaces.
Laid out in the mid-19th century, the Jardim da Estrela, is a public strolling garden with a children's play park, wrought-iron bandstand - with music in the summer - plus a tranquil cafe.
The garden contains a number of rare trees and plants and is a quiet oasis for families, joggers and bookworms.
The bandstand was moved from the Passeio Público park in central Lisbon that became Avenida da Liberdade in the 19th century.
During the late 19th century the park was home to the Leão da Estrela (Lion of Estrela), donated in 1871 by Paiva Raposo, a colonial administrator and explorer in Africa. The poor, caged lion inspired an early 20th century play and film.
Access - Getting to Jardim da Estrela, Lisbon
The Jardim da Estrela is open from 7 am-midnight daily.
Tram: The #25 tram shuttles between Plaça Figueira and Lisbon's largest cemetery at Campo Ourique (Prazeres) stopping at Estrela on the way. Lisbon Tram 28 also stops close to the park; Buses: #709, #713, #720, #738 are all convenient.
Nearby
On the northern edge of the park in the Estrela district of the capital is the Museu João de Deus, dedicated to the Romantic poet. Also close by is the Assembleia da República (National Assembly).
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Jardim da Estrela Map
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