Rising to a height of 471 metres, Montealegre is one of Ourense’s largest leisure areas. Dominated by slopes, it offers interesting views of the city established on the banks of the Miño River. Once a quarry, some of these spaces have been restored and are now used as outdoor auditoriums.
The weather conditions and type of soil on Montealegre led to the creation of a 15-hectare botanic park in this space to the east of the city in 2011. It is stocked with more than 240 plant species, most of which are typical of Mediterranean environments.
The stone cross atop Montealegre is the spot that offers the most expansive views. A platform has been installed to create a viewpoint, with a bench that has become known as the ‘prettiest bench in Ourense’. From here, the city stretches out below, making it possible to see the urban settlement in the river valley almost in its entirety.
The space is also used for education and research around biodiversity, its management and protection. Additionally, there is an interpretive and research centre located in a notable architectural complex made up of interconnected blocks that incorporate older industrial infrastructure elements.