Jardim do Palácio do Freixo

Jardim do Palácio do Freixo in Porto is the historic garden of the Baroque Freixo Palace, set in the Campanhã district on the banks of the Douro. It dates to the 18th century, when Canon Jerónimo de Távora had the estate built to a design attributed to Nicolau Nasoni.

What will you see in the garden?

The layout follows an Italian tradition. Balustraded alleys divide the grounds, and small groups of allegorical statues line the paths. The western garden has a belvedere, a feature typical of Italianate gardens of the period. On the east side, a semicircular space is flanked by two small pavilions decorated with carved drums, helmets, shields, flags and cannons. The palace's south front faces the river with three balustraded balconies, and the terraces open onto views of the Douro.

What is the history of the place?

The palace went up in the middle of the 18th century. Toward the end of that century the Viscounts of Azurara bought it, and in 1850 it passed to António Afonso Velado. A flood in 1909 destroyed the veranda on the river side. In the 20th century the Companhia de Moagens Harmonia flour-milling company took over the site, building a factory in the gardens themselves and later a 45-metre silo. It began restoring the building in 1947. The state acquired the estate in 1984, and a fire broke out in 1985 during emergency repairs. Afterwards, tiles, facades and roof frames were recovered and the gardens cleared. The palace has been a National Monument since 1910.

What is the palace today?

Since October 2009 the palace has operated as a hotel, first within the Pousadas de Portugal network and now as the Pestana Palácio do Freixo. The old palace rooms serve as common areas, while the former mill buildings were converted into guest rooms. Because this is a hotel property, check access rules for the grounds with the operator before you go.

When should you visit?

The garden and river views are best seen by day in good weather, ideally in the late afternoon when the light picks out the facades and statues. A visit pairs easily with a walk around Campanhã and the Douro waterfront, away from the busy centre of Porto.

Frequently asked questions

Who designed Freixo Palace?

It is attributed to Nicolau Nasoni, the Italian architect active in 18th-century Porto, who worked for Canon Jerónimo de Távora.

What style is the garden?

It draws on Italian tradition, with balustraded alleys, allegorical sculpture, a belvedere and a semicircular space with pavilions.

Is the palace a protected monument?

Yes, it has held National Monument status since 1910.

Where is the garden?

In the Campanhã district of Porto, on the bank of the Douro.