Laurenti Arnault
Google
Jardim da Parada in Campo de Ourique is one of those rare places in Lisbon that feels genuinely local—quiet, shaded, and full of character. The garden is beautifully maintained, surrounded by big, old trees like sequoias and plane trees, with a small pond in the center where ducks and turtles paddle around peacefully. There’s a traditional bandstand, a nice playground for kids, and a charming little kiosk café that serves good coffee, light meals, and has plenty of outdoor seating under the trees. The vibe is calm and neighborly. People of all ages hang out here—seniors playing cards or reading, parents with strollers, kids running around, people walking their dogs, and others just sitting quietly enjoying the shade. One lovely touch is the old red phone booth that’s been turned into a tiny free library. It’s things like this that make the park feel alive and loved. The space isn’t huge, but it’s got everything it needs. Flower beds are always fresh, paths are clean, and there are benches everywhere. There are also two important statues tucked inside the garden—Maria da Fonte and Professor Ferreira de Macedo—which give it a bit of historical personality. But what really stood out this time was the buzz around the new underground development being planned. The city has announced a project to build a large underground parking garage beneath the garden. While I understand the need to ease traffic and create more parking in Campo de Ourique, I can’t help but feel concerned about the long-term impact this might have on such a delicate green space. There’s a real fear among locals that the construction will disturb the ecosystem of the garden—the roots of these beautiful old trees, the peace and quiet, and possibly the safety of the pond and wildlife. Right now, the garden feels timeless and balanced, and people are naturally worried that digging beneath it could change that. It’s a bit of a crossroads moment for Jardim da Parada. As it stands today, it’s one of the most welcoming and peaceful little parks in the city—loved by the neighborhood and full of everyday life. I hope that whatever happens with the development plans, the soul of the garden is preserved. If you're in Lisbon and want to experience a bit of calm, community, and natural charm, this place is well worth a visit. And if you’re a local—keep an eye on what’s planned beneath your feet.
