The central monument was inaugurated in 1902 to commemorate the 400th anniversary of Albuquerque's departure for India.
The bronze statue atop the pedestal was sculpted by Costa Motta and Silva Pinto.
The monument's pedestal incorporates stone carvings depicting nautical themes and historical maritime scenes.
The garden sits on land that was once part of the Royal Stables of the Belém Palace.
The Jardim Afonso de Albuquerque is a formal garden located in the Belém district of Lisbon, situated directly opposite the Palácio de Belém. The park is anchored by a central neo-Manueline monument dedicated to Afonso de Albuquerque, the second governor of Portuguese India. The garden features a symmetrical layout with geometrically arranged flower beds, box hedges, and central fountains. It serves as a transition point between the Tagus riverfront and the historic monumental area of Belém. The surrounding area contains various state buildings and cultural institutions. The site is a public space maintained by the Lisbon City Council.
From the south end of the garden looking north toward the Belém Palace, capturing the monument in the foreground.
Visit during the morning to capture the monument in soft, directional lighting against the palace backdrop.
Walk across the street to explore the Belém Palace gardens, which are sometimes open to the public on specific days.
Keep to the designated pathways to preserve the formal box hedge arrangements.
Avoid confusing this garden with the larger tropical gardens nearby; this site is significantly smaller and purely formal.
Maintain a respectful volume, as the area is adjacent to the official residence of the President of the Portuguese Republic.
