The statues representing the Portuguese kings who fought against the Spanish during the Restoration War are carved shorter than the others, symbolizing their lack of royal legitimacy in the eyes of the Spanish crown.
The garden layout utilizes a 'stairway of the kings' where statues of historical monarchs are positioned in descending order of power and sequence.
Water from the fountains is distributed through a sophisticated irrigation system that was highly advanced for its time of construction.
The garden is divided into five distinct terraces, each serving a specific aesthetic or functional role within the episcopal grounds.
The Jardim do Paço Episcopal is a 18th-century Baroque garden commissioned by Bishop João de Mendonça. It features a complex terraced layout incorporating stone staircases, ornamental fountains, and a collection of granite statues. The statuary depicts biblical figures, the Apostles, and various kings of Portugal, including those who claimed the throne during the Spanish occupation. Designed with strict geometric symmetry, the garden includes high boxwood hedges and water features fed by local springs. It serves as an example of the Portuguese Baroque style adapted for episcopal estates. The site connects directly to the Museu Cargaleiro and the historical episcopal palace. Maintenance of the horticultural elements remains a priority to preserve the original 18th-century aesthetic.
From the top of the central staircase looking down across the primary fountain and the garden's geometric layout.
Walk the full length of the terraced levels to view the fountain details from multiple elevations.
Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the gravel paths and stone stairs can be uneven.
Check the upper terraces first to capture the overall geometric design in your photos.
Do not attempt to walk on the manicured boxwood hedges, as they are fragile and part of the protected historic landscape.
Refrain from climbing on the stone walls or touching the historical statues.
