4.4.16 Alameda Keil do Amaral
Estrada Montes Claros, Parque Florestal de Monsanto
Location HERE.
Within Monsanto Park, named for the man who laid out so many green spaces during the Estado Novo’s rule, and with a connection to the first years of Formula 1 Grand Prix racing, nowadays this particular Alameda is a favourite with families, many of them taking a picnic along with them, the inevitable dog walkers, joggers, cyclists, and city dwellers looking to get a little time somewhere away from the noise and traffic.
The Formula 1 connection is that Estrada Montes Claros, from the roundabout on Estrada Alvito to the roundabout on Estrada do Penedo, was part of the Circuito de Monsanto, which hosted a variety of motor races during the 1950s and 60s, but which ceased operation in 1971.
What you see there now is what racers saw back then: no gravel traps, no run-off areas, no tyre barriers, no Armco, no straw bales, nothing. But plenty of trees, steep drops, and a few rather solid buildings waiting to collect anyone who went off. Hairy does not even start to describe it.
Only one world championship F1 event was held there, that being the 1959 Portuguese Grand Prix, during the era of the 2.5 litre formula, and in the early days of rear-engined cars. It was won by Stirling Moss in a Cooper; he lapped the entire field in doing so.
Estrada Montes Claros has since been closed to motor traffic completely, but those on foot should be aware of cyclists. There is a natural amphitheatre, views of The Bridge and the south side of the Tejo, toilet facilities, and a café. Those who just want to sit and rest will find plenty of seating along the way.
The viewpoint (Miradouro Keil do Amaral) will likely disappoint those visiting, as tree growth has blotted out the views across the river. There is plenty of seating there to rest after the climb, though. The best views can now be enjoyed from the road, as it curves around the top of the amphitheatre.
Buses 723, 724, 729 and 771.
Location HERE.
The amphitheatre and the view
This was Turn 6 on the Monsanto Circuit
Only one world championship F1 event was held there, that being the 1959 Portuguese Grand Prix, during the era of the 2.5 litre formula, and in the early days of rear-engined cars. It was won by Stirling Moss in a Cooper; he lapped the entire field in doing so.
The viewpoint (Miradouro Keil do Amaral) will likely disappoint those visiting, as tree growth has blotted out the views across the river. There is plenty of seating there to rest after the climb, though. The best views can now be enjoyed from the road, as it curves around the top of the amphitheatre.
Buses 723, 724, 729 and 771.
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