Jardim do Palacio de Cristal

Jardim do Palácio de Cristal, Porto

Jardim do Palacio Cristal, Porto, Portugal. — Pavilhão Rosa Mota, Jardim do Palácio de Cristal

The Jardim do Palácio de Cristal, close to the Museu Nacional Soares dos Reis, is a pleasant garden, covering 8 hectares, with lovely views of the River Douro in Porto from its southern terrace.

The gardens, were designed by the German designer, Émille David and used to house a 19th century iron and glass Crystal Palace, which has been replaced by a modern dome, the Pavilhão Rosa Mota, as a venue for concerts and exhibitions.

The Municipal Library (Biblioteca Municipal Almeida Garrett) and the Museu Romântico are also within the park.

The Romantic Museum of Quinta da Macieirinha (Museu Romântico) is an 18th century mansion that was once briefly the home of Carlos Alberto of Savoy, King of Sardinia and Prince of Piedmont who found exile in Porto and died here a sad and lonely figure in 1849. Several fine rooms including a Ballroom and Dining Room are decorated with original period decorations.

The Jardim do Palácio de Cristal has attractive avenues of lime trees, a lake and a cafe. Peacocks wander the grounds, which is a tranquil place to picnic in the summer.

Access

Jardim do Palácio de Cristal
Rua Dom Manuel II
Porto, 4050-346
Tel: 022 532 0080

Porto buses #200, #201, #207, #208, #303, #500, and #501 are all handy for the gardens. The gardens are open from 8am-9pm in summer and 8 am-7 pm in winter.

Admission: Free.