Park Necessidades

Interesting facts

1. 1

   The park houses the 'Estufa das Necessidades,' which was the first circular greenhouse built in Portugal during the late 18th century.

2. 2

   The grounds feature an array of rare, ancient succulents that were imported during the era of the Portuguese maritime explorations.

3. 3

   It served as the private hunting ground and leisure garden for the Portuguese Royal Family during the Braganza dynasty.

4. 4

   The park is home to a specific population of free-roaming peacocks that have inhabited the grounds for decades.

Overview

Tapada das Necessidades is a historic walled park in Lisbon featuring an extensive collection of 18th-century cacti and succulents. Originally designed as a private royal retreat, the park contains a circular pond and the Neoclassical Necessidades Palace, which serves as the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The landscape integrates formal gardens with wild, unkempt wooded areas that offer views of the 25 de Abril Bridge. It is currently managed by the Junta de Freguesia da Estrela. The grounds include remnants of a historic greenhouse, the oldest of its kind in Portugal, though it is currently in a state of decay. The park functions as a quiet green space shielded from the city's heavy tourist traffic.

Insider tips

• Wear sturdy walking shoes as the paths are uneven, cracked, or made of loose gravel.

• Bring a physical map or GPS, as the park's layout is informal and lacks clear signage.

• Plan for the lack of public facilities and food vendors within the park boundaries.