Estufa Fria de Lisboa, Botanical greenhouse in Avenidas Novas, Lisbon, Portugal.
The Estufa Fria is a greenhouse within Parque Eduardo VII and consists of three connected sections with different temperatures and conditions. The first section maintains cool conditions, the second houses succulents, and the third is hot and humid for tropical species.
The greenhouse was designed in 1933 by architect Raúl Carapinha and replaced an abandoned quarry in the park. Its innovative design using wooden slats to regulate light was pioneering and has proven effective for over nine decades.
The name "Estufa Fria" means "Cold Greenhouse" and refers to the cooling technique that has been used here since opening. Visitors can see how wooden slats filter light and create different zones where plants from various climates grow together.
The site is most easily accessed during warmer months when plants are most active and conditions are comfortable for visitors. Comfortable shoes are advisable as paths wind through different sections and some areas can be shaded and humid.
Unlike modern greenhouses with technical systems, this one relies on natural ventilation and wooden slats alone for temperature control. This simple yet effective approach shows that advanced technology is not always necessary to support complex plant ecosystems.
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