The park is situated on land once owned by the industrialist Olivo Gomes, who founded the Tecelagem Parahyba textile factory.
Landscape architect Roberto Burle Marx prioritized the use of native Brazilian flora in his design for the estate grounds.
The modernist residence on-site is considered a landmark of 20th-century Brazilian architecture.
The park's large artificial lake was designed as a central aesthetic and ecological feature of the original landscaping plan.
The site functions as an important refuge for local fauna, including species of monkeys and wild birds that thrive despite the surrounding urban density.
The Olivo Gomes residence was the first private home in Brazil designed with a 'living room' that intentionally blurs the transition between indoor and outdoor spaces.
The park is recognized as an official Heritage Site by the city of São José dos Campos due to its landscape and architectural historical value.
Parque Roberto Burle Marx, known locally as Parque da Cidade, is a 960,000-square-meter urban park located on the former grounds of the Olivo Gomes estate. The landscape was designed by the renowned Brazilian landscape architect Roberto Burle Marx. The park features the Olivo Gomes Residence, a modernist mansion designed by Rino Levi. It hosts a diverse array of wildlife, including capybaras and various tropical bird species. The grounds encompass extensive lawns, artificial lakes, and curated botanical collections. It serves as a major ecological corridor for the Paraíba Valley region. Visitors can view various outdoor sculptures integrated into the natural scenery. The estate was formerly the location of the Tecelagem Parahyba factory, and remnants of the industrial architecture remain integrated with the gardens.
The reflective views of the modernist mansion set against the artificial lake.
Bring binoculars if you are interested in birdwatching, as the park is a hotspot for local species.
Stick to the marked gravel and paved paths to help maintain the delicate garden beds and ecosystem.
There are designated areas for picnics; bring your own supplies as food options are limited within the grounds.
Avoid visiting during heavy rain, as the unpaved nature trails can become muddy and difficult to navigate.
Maintain a respectful distance from wildlife; do not feed the capybaras.
