Vertical gardens, also known as living walls or green walls, have become increasingly popular in recent years. These unique gardens are characterized by plants that grow vertically, often on a wall or other vertical surface. While vertical gardens have become a global phenomenon, they have a rich history in Brazil that dates back to pre-Columbian times. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the history of vertical gardens in Brazil and their significance.

The use of vertical gardens in Brazil can be traced back to pre-Columbian times, when indigenous peoples cultivated plants on the sides of hills and mountains. These gardens were an important source of food and medicine for these communities, and many of the plants used in these gardens are still used today.

With the arrival of European settlers in the 16th century, traditional gardening practices in Brazil changed. European-style gardens became more popular, with a focus on formal gardens and ornamental plants. However, vertical gardening never completely disappeared in Brazil.

In the 20th century, Brazilian architect and urban planner Roberto Burle Marx brought vertical gardens back into the spotlight. Burle Marx was known for his innovative use of plants in his designs, and he was one of the first architects to incorporate vertical gardens into his work.

One of Burle Marx’s most famous works is the Banco Safra building in São Paulo, which features a massive vertical garden on its exterior. This living wall, which is over 14 meters high and 200 square meters in area, is one of the largest vertical gardens in the world.

Since then, the popularity of vertical gardens in Brazil has continued to grow. They are now a common sight in both residential and commercial settings throughout the country. In addition to their aesthetic appeal, vertical gardens also provide a number of benefits, including improved air quality and insulation, as well as reduced noise pollution.

Significance of Vertical Gardens in Brazil

Vertical gardens have a special significance in Brazil due to the country’s unique ecological and social context. Brazil is home to the Amazon rainforest, which is one of the most biodiverse regions in the world. It is also home to a number of other ecosystems, including the Atlantic Forest, the Cerrado, and the Pantanal.

The use of vertical gardens in Brazil is seen as a way to bring some of this biodiversity into urban areas. By incorporating plants into vertical spaces, architects and designers are able to create green spaces in areas where traditional gardens may not be possible. This helps to mitigate the environmental impact of urbanization and can even help to combat climate change.

In addition to their environmental benefits, vertical gardens also have social significance in Brazil. They provide a way for urban residents to connect with nature and create a sense of community. In many cases, vertical gardens are maintained by local residents and community organizations, which helps to foster a sense of ownership and pride in the local community.

A Rich History in Brazil

Vertical gardens have a long and rich history in Brazil, dating back to pre-Columbian times. While their popularity waned during the colonial period, they were brought back into the spotlight in the 20th century by Brazilian architect and urban planner Roberto Burle Marx. Today, vertical gardens are a common sight in both residential and commercial settings throughout the country.

Vertical gardens are significant in Brazil due to the country’s unique ecological and social context. They provide a way to bring some of the country’s rich biodiversity into urban areas, while also providing a sense of community and connection to nature.