It is in the natural landscape that the ancient city of Coimbra stands out with its parks and gardens. These, have a historical and scientific value that blends with people's lives. They invite you to moments of contemplation ennobling the history and heritage of the city. Many of them transport us to a romantic scenario, such as that of D. Pedro and Inês de Castro - a true story with a tragic ending. Coimbra is contemplated, day and night, along the banks of the Mondego river, thus giving it a touch of magic.
This garden (Mermaid's Garden) was built in the 18th century, between 1723 and 1752, on the initiative of Prior D. Gaspar da Encarnação. The space was formerly called Quinta da Ribela and was mainly intended for the recollection and meditation of the Priests (Cónegos Regrantes of Santo Agostinho) or "crúzios" as they were called. This garden used to be inside the walls of the Monastery of Santa Cruz.
It was created on the initiative of Marquês de Pombal in 1772, during the reformation of education, that became more practical since then. Here, you will find history, science and nature, in an area of more than 13ha. It is situated right in the center of Coimbra, where you can find a wide variety of fauna and flora from all over the world.
The "Barca Serrana" is one of the examples recovered so that people can take recreational walks with a gastronomic surprise. On this short tour, we understand how goods were transported in the old days between Penacova and Figueira da Foz. This one carried firewood, carqueja and branches, sold to the ovens in the city and, from Figueira da Foz it used to bring salt and fish, among other products. Currently it is an ecologically sustainable transport.