The Jardim do Paço Episcopal in Castelo Branco secured last Saturday qualification for the grand national final of the New 7 Wonders of Portugal, in the Tourism category, during a gala broadcast live by TVI from Sintra. The announcement coincided with the Sabores de Perdição fair in Castelo Branco, turning the weekend into a milestone of celebration for the city. The Baroque space is now the only representative from the entire district of Castelo Branco still in the running.
The Castelo Branco garden will compete for the final victory against two island rivals: Jardim Monte Palace Madeira, in Funchal, and Cella Bar, in Madalena, Pico island, in the Azores. A large delegation of residents and natives of the region traveled to Sintra to support the candidacy, making their presence heard throughout the broadcast. The mayor, Leopoldo Rodrigues, was present at the venue and praised the population's dedication.
The mayor highlighted the need to maintain the collective momentum for the challenges ahead and addressed words of recognition to all who voted and shared the candidacy. He stated that the Jardim do Paço Episcopal is one of the crown jewels of the municipality and represents enormous pride for the people of Castelo Branco.
The site, built in the 18th century, features lakes, fountains and statues of kings and virtues, representing one of the highest exponents of Baroque landscape art in Portugal. The local council has confirmed it will reinforce voting appeals within associations, businesses and the regional community, also mobilizing the Beira Baixa diaspora in the country and abroad to secure this renowned accolade.
