in the 19th century there were still several ranches within the borders of what is today rio de janeiro - parque lage started its existence as such a ranch at a time just preceding the economic ascension of the great urban centers.  

the park's ownership changed hands several times until the mid 19th century, when henrique laje became the owner, giving the property its current name. in 1920, as a tribute to his wife, an italian opera singer, he commissioned major remodeling works, including the construction of a mansion surrounding a pool, now one of its most well-known features.