Parque Henrique Lage, commonly referred to as Parque Lage, is a public park situated at the base of Corcovado mountain in the Jardim Botânico district of Rio de Janeiro. The landmark lies directly beneath the mountain peak that holds the Christ the Redeemer statue. The grounds unite natural forested areas with European-style architectural elements and modern urban park features.
The history of the estate began in the early 1830s when Antonio Martins Lage bought the property. Around 1840, landscape designer John Tyndale developed a rustic garden on the site, incorporating a detailed artificial grotto. A second cavernous structure was later added, housing twelve individual aquarium tanks. During the 1920s, the estate served as the residence of industrialist Henrique Lage and his wife, opera singer Gabriella Besanzoni. Lage commissioned Italian architect Mario Vodret to renovate the main mansion, which was embellished with interior artwork painted by Salvador Payols Sabaté. In June 1957, the National Historical and Artistic Heritage Institute (IPHAN) officially designated the estate as a historical and cultural heritage site. The property was subsequently transformed into a public park during the 1960s.
Visitors to the park can explore the surrounding subtropical forest via a network of walking paths. The grounds feature expansive lawns, fountains, imperial palm trees, and outdoor seating areas designed for relaxation. The historic mansion serves as a central point of interest, housing the Visual Arts School of Parque Lage alongside a public café.
The estate has also hosted international events and pop culture productions. The mansion served as the hospitality house for the British Olympic Team during the Rio games and was prominent as a filming location for Snoop Dogg's 2003 music video for the song Beautiful.
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