4.4.12 Jardim do Palácio Marquesas da Fronteira

Largo São Domingo de Benfica 1

Location HERE.

THIS IS A PAY ATTRACTION

Closed Sundays.

At the rear of Palácio Marquesas da Fronteira, which sits at the northern edge of Monsanto Park, is a classical “Box Garden”, which should be better known, as it was a location used for On Her Majesty’s Secret Service, the sixth official Bond film, and the only outing in the lead role for George Lazenby.

You’ll most likely not have too much company for an early afternoon stroll around the formally laid out space, which is well away from the city noise, although you will hear approaching aircraft, and some rumbling from the nearby rail line and main road.

CAUTION The paths exhibit various stages of wear and tear, and are often uneven, as are some of the steps.

There is a variety of statuary, but most attention focuses on the artificial water feature at one side of the garden, known as the Knight’s Tank, and the terrace above it, known as the Kings’ Gallery.

The Knight’s Tank has a variety of inhabitants, but the main attraction is a black swan. Sometimes it will be taking refuge at the terrace, or gallery, side of the water: if you’re lucky, it will come out for a swim, and to remind anyone visiting who’s boss.

Benches around the garden when you need to sit and chill, some tree cover, but not for days when the weather is wet.

Bus 770 (from the stop at the north side of the elevated Motorway, close to the Jardim Zoológico Metro exit), or walkable from Sete Rios rail and Metro station along Rua Francisco Gentil Martins, across the São Domingos de Benfica footbridge, and Rua de São Domingos de Benfica.