Duque da Terceira Garden – Terceira Island

Duque da Terceira Garden is located in the center of the city and municipality of Angra do Heroísmo, on Terceira Island. This is a beautiful classic garden, offering a wide variety of botanical species, lakes, and water features.

The entire park complex covers an area of about 31,600 m², which was formerly occupied by the enclosures of the Jesuit College and the São Francisco Convent in Angra.

Currently, the garden is divided into two levels connected by a slope paved with lava stone, a nod to the volcanic origins of the island. On the upper level, a staircase leads to the Alto da Memória obelisk. At this level, a viewpoint offers a splendid view over Angra do Heroísmo.

In addition to the extensive variety of botanical species, Duque da Terceira Garden also features unique elements like the “Prodigal Son” tiles, panels dating back to 1740 that depict rustic scenes of the era, and the “Tanque do Preto,” an old irrigation tank with a black statue of a Brazilian indigenous figure playing music.

History of Duque da Terceira Garden

The Duque da Terceira Garden was created in 1882 at the initiative of Civil Governor Afonso de Castro, aiming to bring modernity to the city center by establishing a public promenade.

The garden initially covered an area of 17,500 square meters, designed in a classic, French geometric style by Belgian agronomist and gardener Francisco José Gabriel. Although several aesthetic styles were attempted, the Belgian’s influence ultimately prevailed.

Upon completion, the garden became a large acclimatization garden, offering excellent conditions for plants from around the world.

In 1888, the garden was renamed “Passeio Duque da Terceira,” a green oasis in the heart of Angra do Heroísmo. In the decades that followed, it became known by its current name.

Over the years, various modifications and improvements were made to Duque da Terceira Garden. The lower garden was leveled, the bandstand received its current metal roof and railing, and the fountain was relocated to its current location.

The upper garden began to take on its current form in 1922. In 2015, a tea house was added, and the buildings behind the São Francisco Convent were restored and integrated into the garden. An adjoining water mill was also restored and incorporated into the complex.

Description

Today, Duque da Terceira Garden is a charming and delightful green space in the heart of Angra do Heroísmo. It features a wide variety of exotic species, combining tropical and subtropical plants with temperate species from around the world, making it akin to a botanical garden.

Currently, there are a wide variety of plants, including coffee plants, eucalyptus, pine trees, dragon trees, avocado trees, lime trees, and laurels.

There is also a large collection of exotic plants gathered since the Age of Discoveries, including:

• Two large araucaria specimens;
• Eucalyptus;
• Metrosideros;
• Palm trees;
• Tulip trees;
• Magnolias;
• Camellias;
• Hibiscus;
• Strawberry trees;
• African tree ferns;
• Zamias;
• Poinsettias;
• Laurel;
• Plumeria;

An interesting feature for visitors is that almost all the plants are labeled, making identification easy.

In addition to its vast collection of plant species, the garden includes a dedicated children’s area, a greenhouse, picnic tables and benches, a bandstand, a gazebo, stone paths honoring Duque da Terceira, Almeida Garrett, and Vitorino Nemésio. It also features a fountain, the bust of Manuel António, the ruins of an old water mill, several fountains, small lakes, drinking fountains, and public restrooms.

It is one of the most emblematic strolls in beautiful Angra do Heroísmo and a must-see during your stay.

Location on the Map

Video

Photos (C) SIARAM