Jardim Público de Chaves

Jardim Público de Chaves is the oldest city garden in Chaves, sitting right on the bank of the Tâmega river next to the ancient Roman bridge of Trajan. It covers about 1.5 hectares in an L-shaped layout and makes an easy, quiet break while exploring northern Portugal.

How did the garden come to Chaves?

The park was not commissioned by the city but given to it. Portuguese banker Cândido Sotto Mayor paid for it. Work began in 1897, and in 1901 a formal ceremony handed the keys of the garden to the Câmara Municipal de Chaves as a gift to all local residents.

Sotto Mayor was born in Lebução and moved to Chaves in 1864. He later emigrated to Brazil, where he made his fortune and founded a bank under his own name, with branches across the country. He spent eighteen thousand escudos on the garden. In 1915 the park also came to be known as Jardim Cândido Sotto Mayor. A bust of the benefactor stands on the main promenade in his honour.

What is there to see?

The garden is spacious and pleasant. A small watercourse runs through it, and there are shaded corners and areas full of flowers. You will also find a traditional bandstand and a children's playground, which makes it a practical stop for families.

Parts of the garden look out over the Tâmega and the Roman bridge. A short walk therefore combines time among greenery with one of the most recognisable views in town.

How to plan a visit

The garden lies in the urban fabric beside the river, so it fits easily into a walk around Chaves. An hour is enough to stroll the paths, look at the bust of the founder and sit in the shade. If you want to see more, the Trajan bridge and the historic centre are close by.

Frequently asked questions

Who created Jardim Público de Chaves? Banker Cândido Sotto Mayor, who built it in 1897 and gave it to the city in 1901.

How big is the garden? About 1.5 hectares, laid out in an L shape.

Is there anything for children? Yes, the garden has a playground.

What can you see from here? A view over the Tâmega river and the Roman bridge.

Has the garden always had the same name? No. From 1915 it has also been called Jardim Cândido Sotto Mayor, after its benefactor.