Nestled at the foot of Corcovado Mountain, beneath the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue, Parque Lage is one of Rio de Janeiro’s most enchanting urban escapes. This historic park combines lush Atlantic rainforest, romantic gardens, and an elegant Italian-style mansion that has become an artistic and cultural landmark. It’s a place where nature, history, and creativity meet—perfect for peaceful strolls, photo sessions, and a taste of Rio’s artistic spirit.

The estate dates back to the 19th century, when it was the private residence of Enrique Lage, a wealthy industrialist, and his wife, Gabriella Besanzoni, an Italian opera singer. Inspired by European architecture, Lage remodeled the mansion in the 1920s into a neo-Renaissance-style palace, surrounded by tropical gardens designed by British landscape architect John Tyndale. In 1960, the property was declared a public park, and since 1975 it has housed the Escola de Artes Visuais do Parque Lage (School of Visual Arts)—one of Brazil’s leading art institutions.

Interesting Facts
- The mansion’s courtyard, with its reflecting pool and view of Christ the Redeemer towering above, is one of the most photographed spots in Rio.
- The gardens are part of the Tijuca National Park ecosystem, home to monkeys, toucans, and lush tropical vegetation.
- The palace and grounds have appeared in several films, music videos, and photo shoots—including Snoop Dogg and Pharrell’s “Beautiful.”
- Inside the mansion, the Escola de Artes Visuais regularly hosts contemporary art exhibitions, workshops, and cultural events.
- The park’s open-air café, located in the palace courtyard, offers a unique experience of sipping coffee under the gaze of the Christ statue.

Travel Tips
- Best Time to Visit: Morning or late afternoon, when the light is soft and the park is quieter.
- Entrance: Free and open to the public; art exhibitions and guided tours may have a small fee.
- Café Stop: Enjoy breakfast or brunch at the Café du Lage, a favorite spot for locals and travelers alike.
- What to Bring: Comfortable shoes for walking, a camera, and insect repellent if exploring the trails.
- Nearby Attractions: Parque Lage sits close to the Jardim Botânico (Botanical Garden) and the Corcovado Train station that takes visitors up to Christ the Redeemer.
- Photography Tip: Capture the mansion’s interior courtyard framed by the arches, with Christ the Redeemer in the background—it’s one of Rio’s most iconic views.