Parque Lage

In the Jardim Botânico neighborhood, at the foot of Corcovado, Parque Lage brings together a historic mansion, romantic gardens and a patch of Atlantic Forest. It is one of the most photogenic places in Rio, with Christ the Redeemer appearing high above the courtyard.

The mansion was rebuilt in the 1920s by industrialist Henrique Lage for his wife, the Italian opera singer Gabriella Besanzoni. It was designed by Italian architect Mario Vodret, who created the elegant inner courtyard with its pool, surrounded by columns — today one of the city’s best-known images.

Since 1975 the house has been home to the Escola de Artes Visuais do Parque Lage (EAV), a visual arts school that has trained generations of Brazilian artists and offers courses, workshops and exhibitions. The site has also appeared in films, such as Glauber Rocha’s “Terra em Transe” (“Entranced Earth”, 1967).

The 19th-century gardens have winding paths, ponds, a grotto with aquariums and small towers, in a romantic style that invites exploring. It is also where the trail to Corcovado begins — a steep climb of a few hours through the forest up to the Christ.

The highlight is the courtyard: sitting at the café by the pool, with the mansion’s façade all around and Corcovado behind, is one of the most pleasant things to do in the South Zone. Around it, the park is lovely for an unhurried stroll or a picnic in the shade.