Jardim Botânico da Ajuda

This was the first botanical garden ever created in Lisbon and Portugal, in 1768. It was built by the Marquis of Pombal and designed by the Italian botanist Domingos Vandelli, installed in the grounds of the Palácio da Ajuda and used to complement the education of the princes of Portugal. It assembled over 5, 000 species of plants and allowed the study of the varied vegetation found in Portugal and the overseas territories. Expeditions were sent to Angola, Brazil and Cape Verde to collect seeds and plants. The garden, laid out in the style of the era, flourished. On the upper level, you’ll find King José’s ponds and tree garden with myriad examples of tropical flora. On the lower, a baroque box garden with a central pond, nurseries and herbs. It provides a unique view of the Tagus amid species from all over the world.