Ajuda Botanical Garden

Ajuda Botanical Garden is a multi-terraced garden in Lisbon arranged with geometric flowerbeds, fountains, and ponds organized by geographical regions and plant classifications. Specialized areas include greenhouses, a scent garden, and spaces designed for botanical education and research.

The garden was created in 1768 by the Marquis of Pombal and designed by Italian botanist Domenico Vandelli, making it Portugal's first botanical garden. This establishment marked an important moment in the development of botanical science and plant knowledge in the country.

The garden displays plants from around the world, connecting to Portugal's era of maritime trade and global discovery. Walking through the different plant collections, visitors experience how exploration shaped the garden's design and purpose.

The garden spans multiple levels, so comfortable footwear and suitable clothing are helpful when exploring the different sections and terraces. Visitors should allow enough time to walk through the various plant collections and specialized areas without feeling rushed.

White peacocks roam freely throughout the gardens, creating an unexpected sight among the scientific plant collections. A distinctive stone fountain with 40 water spouts sits at the center of the lower terrace, serving as a notable architectural feature.

Location: Ajuda

Operator: Instituto Superior de Agronomia

Phone: +351213653100

Email: botanicoajuda@isa.ulisboa.pt

Website: http://isa.ulisboa.pt/jba

GPS coordinates: 38.70616,-9.20078

Latest update: December 8, 2025 21:07