Parque Lage: A Roman Oasis at the Foot of Christ the Redeemer

Parque Lage is a captivating public park nestled in the Jardim Botânico neighborhood of Rio de Janeiro, at the base of the iconic Corcovado Mountain. Originally a sugar mill in the 16th century, the land transformed over time, becoming a residence for nobles and aristocrats. In the 1920s, industrialist Henrique Lage commissioned a Roman-style mansion for his wife, the Italian opera singer Gabriella Besanzoni, turning the estate into a glamorous hub for Rio's high society. Today, Parque Lage is a historical and cultural heritage site, offering free admission to all. The mansion houses the School of Visual Arts (Escola de Artes Visuais), hosting contemporary art exhibitions, workshops, and cultural events. Visitors can explore the mansion's architecture, relax by the central courtyard's pool, and enjoy a meal at the Plage Café, all while taking in picturesque views. The park's extensive grounds feature gardens designed in both French and English styles, with geometric shapes in the front and dense, romantic vegetation on the sides. Winding paths lead through lush forests, revealing artificial caves, small lakes, and natural viewpoints. For adventurous visitors, a well-marked trail through the Tijuca National Park begins at Parque Lage, leading to the summit of Corcovado and the Christ the Redeemer statue. Parque Lage is more than just a pretty picture; it's a place where history, culture, and nature intertwine.