Porto plants European values with a symbolic tree marking four decades of Union

07/05/2026

Chosen for its longevity and sustainability – with an eye on future generations – as well as for its proven resistance and resilience, a new Quercus suber (cork oak) has been planted by the Mayor in Alameda de Cartes Park. The new tree is the 40th to reinforce the city’s green heritage in the week marking Europe Day, as well as four decades since Portugal joined the European Union.

In the words of Mayor Pedro Duarte, “Porto is proud to present itself as the host city for the national celebrations”, which begin “with a tribute to a vision of the city rooted in environmental sustainability, green spaces, public space and quality of life”.

The mayor is in no doubt that “this vision aligns with a number of European values and principles, particularly in the defence of environmental sustainability”.

“Unlike other regions of the world that have downplayed this dimension, Europe has made strong commitments in environmental matters, and we want to make it clear that Porto aims to be at the forefront in this regard,” Pedro Duarte added.

Recalling that the city is a candidate for European Green Capital, the Mayor explained that this ambition is part of a broader mission “to demonstrate that Porto is leading the way in safeguarding quality of life, wellbeing and healthy lifestyles that can make people’s lives increasingly fulfilling”.

“We want to celebrate Europe by celebrating this idea of the city,” he concluded.

In addition to this planting, Alameda de Cartes Park is now home to a further seven cork oaks, 16 Portuguese oaks (Quercus faginea), ten ginkgo biloba trees, three oriental plane trees and three white poplars.

As part of the programme to mark Europe Day, activities will also include guided visits to the Porto Municipal Plant Nursery, offering an opportunity to discover the work being carried out to preserve and enhance the city’s green spaces.