#LisboaEscuta. From the vegetable garden to the choir, voices raised high!

In the Penha de França district of Lisbon, the Horta do Alto da Eira community garden has transformed a former construction waste site into a vibrant hub for social connection. Founded by the Regador Association, the project brings volunteers together to cultivate land and participate in the Regador Choir. Inspired by the 19th-century tradition of 'going to the gardens' to socialise, the project uses gardening and choral singing to combat urban isolation and promote mental well-being, even serving as a site for social prescribing within the National Health Service. The choir, led by professional musician Inês Proença, performs in a circle to foster group cohesion and a sense of belonging, singing songs that celebrate the land and community.