at a glance

located in the jardim botânico neighborhood, at the foot of the corcovado mountain, is the lovely parque lage (lage park). this park is not only one of the most beautiful and unique parks in rio de janeiro, but it goes well beyond a simple park. home to a beautifully preserved colonial palace, complete with a unique decorative pool, parque lage combines the pleasure of outdoor relaxation with the stimulation of cultural discoveries - in fact, in addition to offering visitors a wonderful green area, the park is home to a cultural center stage for frequent art galleries, and a charming coffee shop set underneath the arches of the palace.

in the 19th century there were still several ranches within the borders of what is today rio de janeiro and,  in fact,  parque lage started its existence as a ranch at a time just preceding the economic ascension of the great urban centers - the park's ownership changed hands several times until 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 engaged in major remodeling works, including the construction of a mansion surrounding a pool, now one of its most well-known features.