Parque Urbano da Quinta Conde dos Arcos

Parque Urbano da Quinta Conde dos Arcos is a nine-hectare city park in Lisbon's Olivais district, set on the grounds of a former aristocratic country estate. It mixes greenery, a community vegetable garden, a children's playground and working vocational schools, so it feels more like a living corner of the city than a plain promenade park.

What is the history of the place?

The quinta already existed when it passed to the Noronha family in the 17th century, later the Counts of Arcos. Olivais was then an outlying area of Lisbon, and the estate served as a retreat from the capital's bustle. It included a manor house, a courtyard, an olive oil press, olive groves, a vineyard and orchards. In 1940 Lisbon's municipal council expropriated the quinta from the counts' heirs, and a small part of the land was lost to the road linking the airport with Moscavide.

What is there to see?

The park's emblem is a huge, centuries-old dragon tree (Dracaena draco), said to have stood here since the 17th century. Beyond it, a marked trail leads past 28 notable trees. You can walk it on your own with a map and QR codes, or join a guided tour run by the School of Gardening. There is also a small, intimate lake.

The old estate now hosts the municipal plant nursery, the School of Gardening and the School of Pavers (Calceteiros), which train the people who look after Lisbon's green spaces and pavements. The newer part is a horticultural park where residents grow vegetables and herbs, supporting urban biodiversity. Families will appreciate the playground, and tired walkers the cafeteria.

How to visit

The park is public and open all year. It has three entrances, and the address is usually given as Av. Dr. Francisco Luís Gomes in Olivais. Opening hours vary by season: 6:30 am to 10 pm in summer and 6:30 am to 8 pm in winter. Walking in is free; organised tours are run by the School of Gardening, so check current dates before you go.

Allow an hour or two if you want to follow the tree trail and look around the garden areas. Spring and early summer bring the lushest greenery, while mornings and evenings offer the softest light and less heat.

Frequently asked questions

Is the park free? Yes, it is a public city park open all year.

What are the opening hours? Summer 6:30 am to 10 pm, winter 6:30 am to 8 pm.

Where is it? In the Olivais district of Lisbon, on Av. Dr. Francisco Luís Gomes.

Is it good for children? Yes, there is a playground, and a cafeteria on site.

What is the main highlight? The centuries-old dragon tree and the trail of 28 remarkable trees with a map and QR codes.

Can I take a guided tour? Yes, the School of Gardening organises them.

Who is it for?

The park makes a calm break from sightseeing in Lisbon, especially for anyone interested in botany, the history of old estates or urban gardening. It lies outside the strict centre, so it is less a stop for a first short visit and more a rewarding addition for those who want to see a less touristy side of Portugal's capital.