Lisbon Botanical Garden

The Botanical Garden of the University of Lisbon is a hidden gem in the city, offering an oasis of tranquillity and beauty. It is an ideal place to relax, learn and explore the diversity of plants from around the world.

In this article we will take you on a journey through the gardens, providing detailed information about its history, plant collection, structure, location and more. We will also answer some frequently asked questions about the garden.

History of the Botanical Garden of the University of Lisbon

The Botanical Garden of the University of Lisbon was created in 1873 by order of King Louis I. Originally, the garden was mainly used for medical students to study medicinal plants.

However, over time, the garden has evolved into a place for scientific research, education and recreation for the general public. Today, the garden covers an area of 4 hectares and is home to over 18,000 species of plants from all over the world.

The Botanical Garden of the University of Lisbon is committed to nature and environmental conservation efforts. It participates in programmes for the conservation of endangered plants, research on biodiversity and public awareness of environmental issues. The garden is also a member of the European Association of Botanic Gardens, which coordinates the activities of European botanic gardens for plant conservation and scientific research.

Structure of the Lisbon Botanical Garden

The Botanical Garden of the University of Lisbon is divided into several sections, each with its own plant collection. The most important sections include:

• Medicinal plant gardens: where visitors can discover a wide variety of plants used in traditional medicine.
• Aromatic and Culinary Plant Gardens: where visitors can discover the different aromatic and culinary plants of the Portuguese cuisine.
• Succulent Plant Gardens: where visitors can discover amazing plants capable of storing water in their leaves or stems to survive in dry environments.
• Carnivorous plant gardens: where visitors can discover strange plants that have developed mechanisms to capture and digest insects.
• Tropical plant gardens: where visitors can discover a wide variety of exotic plants, including palms, banana trees and ferns.

The Botanical Garden of the University of Lisbon is home to over 18,000 species of plants, some of which are very rare. The collection is organised according to botanical classification, allowing visitors to learn more about the different plant families. Visitors can also discover plants endemic to Portugal and the Madeira archipelago.

Location of the Botanical Garden of the University of Lisbon

The Botanical Garden of the University of Lisbon is located in the Alvarez district, in the east of the city. The exact address is: Jardim Botânico da Universidade de Lisboa, Calçada Martim de Freitas, 2, 1169-056 Lisbon, Portugal. The garden is easily accessible by public transport, taxi or car.

Visitors can take the metro to the “Cidade Universitária” station, then walk about 10 minutes to the garden. Alternatively, buses 731, 735, 738, 744, 750 and 755 stop near the garden.

Lisbon Botanical Garden opening times and admission fees

The Botanical Garden of the University of Lisbon is open every day of the year, except on January 1st, Easter Sunday, May 1st and December 25th.

Opening times vary according to the month of the year. In general, the garden is open from 9am to 6.30pm in summer and from 9am to 5pm in winter.

Entrance fees are very affordable, with a reduced rate for students and the elderly. Children under 6 years of age enter free of charge.

Activities and events at the Botanical Garden of the University of Lisbon

The Botanical Garden of the University of Lisbon offers a wide variety of activities for all ages.

Visitors can participate in guided tours of the garden, gardening workshops, lectures and temporary exhibitions.

The garden also organises special events throughout the year:

• Such as nature festivals
• Music festivals
• Open-air film screenings

The Botanical Garden of the University of Lisbon is a must for nature and garden lovers. With its impressive plant collections, historic gardens, activities for all ages and conservation efforts, the garden offers a unique and enriching experience for all visitors. If you are planning to visit Lisbon, be sure to visit the Botanical Garden of the University of Lisbon and discover the beauty and richness of Portuguese nature.