Fontelo Park

Fontelo Park is the green lung of Viseu, a large public park on the northern edge of the old town, a few minutes' walk from the cathedral and the museum. It is the place where the people of Viseu go to walk, run, play and sit under the trees, and it has a relaxed, local atmosphere that makes a welcome change from the monuments.

The park has a long history. The land was once the hunting reserve and country estate of the bishops of Viseu, who were powerful figures in the region, and its name, Fontelo, is thought to refer to a spring or small fountain. In the 16th century, a bishop built a palace here, the Paço do Fontelo, as a country residence, and the building still stands at the edge of the park, a handsome granite structure with a long facade and a chapel. For centuries, the grounds were private, and they were later opened to the public and laid out as a park, which is why it has so many fine old trees.

The trees are among the main attractions. Tall plane trees, oaks, cedars, lindens and other species cast deep shade over the paths, and in autumn the colours are rich. Avenues lead through the park, and there are lawns, ponds, flowerbeds and shaded benches. A good network of paths makes it suitable for walks of any length, and runners and cyclists use the routes in the morning and evening. The park is on a slope, so some paths are gentle climbs, while others run level.

Facilities cater to families and sports. There is a children's playground, an area with sports courts, including tennis, and an exercise circuit, and a cafe where you can sit outside. The park hosts events throughout the year, including concerts and fairs, and the famous St Matthew's Fair, one of the oldest and largest in Portugal, which fills Viseu with stalls and entertainment from August to September, takes place nearby, adding to the atmosphere. The park is free to enter, and generally open throughout the day and evening.

Fontelo is a good place to relax after sightseeing in the old town, and it is easy to combine with the cathedral square, the Grão Vasco Museum and the medieval gate, the Porta do Soar. Viseu itself is compact, so you can easily walk between them. Bring a book or a picnic, and enjoy the shade in summer. It is cooler than the lower town, and the air on a hot afternoon is pleasant.

The park suits families, joggers, walkers and anyone who wants to see how locals spend their free time. Early morning and late afternoon are the most pleasant times to visit.