Name: Praça do Comércio
Address: 1100-148 Lisbon, Portugal
Rating: 4.7

Waterside public plaza with a notable arch & statue, lined with outdoor cafes & shopping venues.

Lisbon's Enchanting Embrace: A Day of Discovery and Delight

Praça do Comércio

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Arco da Rua Augusta

Santa Justa Lift

Carmo Convent

Teatro Nacional de São Carlos

Praça Luís de Camões

Church of Saint Roch

Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara

Principe Real garden

Palace of Saint Benedict / Assembly of the Republic

Belém Tower

National Palace of Pena

Oceanário de Lisboa

Castelo de S. Jorge

The Praça do Comércio was completely destroyed by a devastating earthquake and subsequent tsunami in 1755. The original palace on the square was also lost in the disaster.

Earthquake and Tsunami

After the 1755 disaster, the square was rebuilt under the direction of Sebastião José de Carvalho e Melo, a prominent figure in Portuguese history.

Rebuilt by a Visionary

The Praça do Comércio is renowned for its beautiful 18th-century symmetrical buildings and arcades, creating a stunning architectural ensemble.

Architectural Beauty

The square faces the River Tejo, offering breathtaking views of the water and the cityscape beyond.

Waterfront Location

The Praça do Comércio is home to Lisbon's oldest restaurant, Martinho da Arcada, which dates back to 1782.

Lisbon's Oldest Restaurant

The square is always a lively hub, with tourists, locals, and government workers creating a vibrant atmosphere.

Always Bustling

Praça do Comércio, Lisbon's iconic square, is a testament to the city's resilience and grandeur. Once the site of the opulent Ribeira Palace, it was transformed into a majestic plaza following the devastating 1755 earthquake. The square's striking yellow buildings, adorned with elegant arches, evoke the city's maritime heritage as the gateway to Lisbon's bustling port.

At its center stands the equestrian statue of King José I, a symbol of the city's reconstruction efforts. The square's northern end is marked by the Rua Augusta Arch, a triumphal arch celebrating Lisbon's rebirth. Visitors can ascend its terrace for panoramic views of the square, the riverfront, and the São Jorge Castle beyond.

Beneath the arches of the square, one can find the Lisboa Story Centre, an interactive museum narrating Lisbon's history from its ancient origins to the present day. The square is also home to the Martinho da Arcada, Lisbon's oldest café, established in 1782, offering a glimpse into the city's rich culinary traditions.

Praça do Comércio is not just a historical landmark but a vibrant hub of activity. Its proximity to the riverfront promenade and the bustling Baixa district makes it an ideal starting point for exploring Lisbon's many attractions. Whether admiring its architectural splendor, delving into its historical significance, or simply soaking in the lively atmosphere, Praça do Comércio offers a captivating experience that encapsulates the essence of Lisbon's past and present.

Introduction

Praça do Comércio, formerly known as Terreiro do Paço, holds immense historical significance as the heart of Lisbon's reconstruction after the devastating 1755 earthquake. Prime Minister Marquis de Pombal orchestrated the square's redesign, symbolizing Lisbon's resilience and rebirth. The square's grand arcades and lemon-meringue facades stand as a testament to the city's architectural prowess and its ability to rise from the ashes of disaster.

The equestrian statue of King José I, sculpted by Joaquim Machado de Castro, occupies the square's center. Cast in bronze, it depicts the king astride his horse, trampling snakes, representing victory over adversity. The statue's placement underscores the monarchy's continued importance in post-earthquake Lisbon.

The Cais das Colunas, a marble staircase leading down to the Tagus River, served as the city's main entrance for centuries. It witnessed the arrival of Portuguese royalty and other dignitaries returning from overseas expeditions, adding to the square's historical allure.

Today, Praça do Comércio remains a vibrant hub, hosting cultural events, concerts, and New Year's Eve celebrations. Its historical significance is intertwined with Lisbon's identity, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking to delve into the city's rich past.

Historical Significance

Praça do Comércio, Lisbon's grand square, stands as a testament to the city's resilience and architectural prowess. Its rebirth after the devastating 1755 earthquake showcased the genius of architects like Eugénio dos Santos and Carlos Mardel. The square's striking yellow buildings, adorned with intricate Manueline and Baroque details, create a harmonious ensemble.

At the heart of the square stands the majestic Rua Augusta Arch, a triumphal gateway designed by Santos de Carvalho. Its towering columns, allegorical sculptures, and intricate carvings narrate Lisbon's history and symbolize its triumph over adversity. The arch's viewing platform offers panoramic vistas of the city, making it a must-visit for architecture enthusiasts.

Equally impressive is the equestrian statue of King José I, sculpted by Joaquim Machado de Castro. The bronze masterpiece depicts the monarch astride a rearing horse, symbolizing his strength and leadership during Lisbon's reconstruction. The statue's dynamic composition and expressive details capture the essence of the era.

Praça do Comércio's architectural significance extends beyond its iconic landmarks. The square's layout, with its symmetrical arcades and central axis, exemplifies the principles of classical urban planning. The use of marble and limestone in its construction adds to its grandeur and durability.

Today, Praça do Comércio remains a vibrant hub, where locals and tourists alike gather to admire its architectural splendor. Its blend of historical significance and contemporary charm makes it a true architectural marvel, a testament to Lisbon's rich heritage and enduring spirit.

Architectural Marvel

Praça do Comércio, the grand square facing the Tagus River in Lisbon, Portugal, serves as a bustling transport hub, connecting various modes of transportation for seamless travel. The square's strategic location by the riverfront makes it a gateway for maritime transport, with a ferry terminal offering services to destinations across the Tejo Estuary. The terminal provides convenient access to the south bank of the river, including the town of Barreiro.

On the northern side of the square, bus and tram bays offer connections to different parts of Lisbon. The E15 tram line, a popular tourist route, departs from here, taking visitors to the historic Belém district. Additionally, buses such as the 728 provide connections to Parque das Nações, Alfama, and Belém.

Beneath the square lies the Terreiro do Paço metro station, part of the city's extensive metro network. The station is served by the blue metro line, offering quick and efficient connections to other parts of Lisbon, including the city center, Baixa-Chiado, and Santa Apolónia railway station.

The transport hub at Praça do Comércio is not just a place of transit but also a vibrant meeting point. The square's spacious layout and proximity to attractions like the Rua Augusta Arch and the equestrian statue of King José I make it a popular gathering spot for locals and tourists alike. Whether you're arriving by ferry, tram, bus, or metro, Praça do Comércio offers a convenient and central starting point for exploring Lisbon's many treasures.

Transport Hub

Praça do Comércio, the grand square in Lisbon, Portugal, stands as a testament to the city's resilience and architectural prowess. After the devastating earthquake of 1755, which razed Lisbon to the ground, the square was meticulously reconstructed under the guidance of Prime Minister Sebastião José de Carvalho e Melo, the Marquis of Pombal.

Pombal's vision for the square was ambitious: to create a symbol of Lisbon's rebirth and a hub for commerce. He commissioned architect Eugénio dos Santos to design a vast, rectangular plaza, flanked by stately government buildings with elegant arcades. The square's centerpiece is the equestrian statue of King José I, a tribute to the monarch who reigned during the earthquake.

The reconstruction of Praça do Comércio was a monumental undertaking, requiring the demolition of the ruined Ribeira Palace and the creation of a new street grid. The square's buildings were constructed in the Pombaline style, characterized by its uniform facades, pastel colors, and earthquake-resistant design.

The square's reconstruction was not merely a physical endeavor; it was also a symbolic act. The new Praça do Comércio represented the city's determination to rise from the ashes and embrace a brighter future. It became a symbol of Lisbon's resilience and a testament to the power of human ingenuity in the face of adversity.

Reconstruction

Praça do Comércio, once the site of the grand Ribeira Palace, stands as a testament to Lisbon's royal past. Before the devastating earthquake of 1755, the palace served as the opulent residence of the Portuguese monarchs, a symbol of their power and prestige. The palace's grandeur extended beyond its walls, shaping the very essence of the square.

The palace's destruction left an indelible mark on Praça do Comércio, yet its legacy lingers. The square's symmetrical design, with its uniform yellow buildings and arcaded galleries, echoes the palace's former splendor. The equestrian statue of King José I, erected in the square's center, pays homage to the monarch who oversaw Lisbon's reconstruction after the earthquake.

Beneath the square's bustling surface lies a hidden remnant of the palace's past. The Cais das Colunas, a series of marble steps leading down to the Tagus River, once served as the grand entrance to the Ribeira Palace. Dignitaries and foreign emissaries would disembark here, ascending the steps to be greeted by the king and his court.

Today, Praça do Comércio stands as a vibrant hub of activity, a far cry from its days as a royal residence. Yet, the square's architectural details and historical significance continue to evoke the grandeur of the Ribeira Palace, offering a glimpse into Lisbon's rich past.

Royal Palace

Praça do Comércio, a grand plaza in Lisbon, Portugal, beckons tourists with its rich history and architectural splendor. Once the heart of Portugal's maritime empire, it was the bustling hub where ships laden with exotic goods from distant lands docked, transforming Lisbon into a global trading center. Today, the plaza's imposing yellow buildings, adorned with elegant arches, house government offices and charming cafes, while the majestic equestrian statue of King Joseph I stands proudly in its center.

At the northern end of the plaza, the Rua Augusta Arch, with its intricate carvings and allegorical sculptures, invites visitors to explore the vibrant Baixa district beyond. Ascend to the arch's viewing platform for panoramic vistas of the city's rooftops and the shimmering Tagus River.

Beneath the plaza lies the Lisboa Story Centre, an interactive museum that unveils Lisbon's captivating past through immersive exhibits and multimedia displays. History buffs will delight in uncovering the tales of explorers who set sail from this very spot, while art enthusiasts can admire the nearby Museu do Dinheiro, showcasing the evolution of currency and banking in Portugal.

Praça do Comércio is not just a historical landmark but also a vibrant hub of activity. Street performers entertain the crowds, while vendors offer traditional Portuguese delicacies and souvenirs. As the sun sets, the plaza transforms into a romantic setting, its buildings illuminated against the darkening sky. Whether seeking historical insights, cultural experiences, or simply soaking in the ambiance of a bygone era, Praça do Comércio offers a captivating journey into the heart of Lisbon's rich heritage.

Tourist Destination

Praça do Comércio, the heart of Lisbon, is a bustling hub where the city's vibrant energy pulsates. This grand square, framed by distinctive yellow Pombaline facades, serves as a stage for a captivating spectacle of commerce, culture, and social life.

Once the site of the royal palace, Praça do Comércio now embodies Lisbon's modern spirit. Its spacious expanse, lined with arcades and shops, invites leisurely strolls and impromptu gatherings. The air crackles with the sounds of street performers, the chatter of locals, and the laughter of tourists.

At the square's center, the majestic equestrian statue of King José I stands tall, a testament to the city's resilience after the devastating earthquake of 1755. The statue's commanding presence adds a touch of grandeur to the lively scene below.

As the day transitions into evening, Praça do Comércio transforms into a vibrant nightlife destination. The cafes and restaurants lining the square fill with patrons, their conversations and laughter mingling with the melodies of live music. The square's illuminated facades cast a warm glow, creating an enchanting ambiance that lingers long after sunset.

Praça do Comércio is not just a physical space but a living entity, a microcosm of Lisbon's vibrant spirit. It is a place where history, culture, and commerce intertwine, creating a captivating tapestry of urban life.

Bustling Hub

Praça do Comércio, the grand square in Lisbon, is a cultural hub that invites exploration. The square's rich history is intertwined with Portugal's maritime heritage, making it a captivating destination for those seeking cultural immersion. The imposing equestrian statue of King José I stands proudly in the center, a testament to the city's resilience after the devastating 1755 earthquake.

Beneath the square's elegant arcades, visitors can delve into the Lisboa Story Centre, an interactive museum that chronicles Lisbon's fascinating past. The museum's multimedia exhibits bring to life the city's triumphs and tribulations, from its maritime explorations to its architectural transformations.

For art enthusiasts, the square offers a unique opportunity to admire the Rua Augusta Arch, a triumphal arch adorned with intricate sculptures and allegorical figures. The arch serves as a gateway to the vibrant Baixa district, known for its charming streets and historic buildings.

Praça do Comércio also hosts a variety of cultural events throughout the year. From traditional Portuguese music concerts to contemporary art exhibitions, the square transforms into a stage for local and international artists. The square's open-air setting provides an immersive experience, allowing visitors to soak in the city's vibrant atmosphere while engaging with its cultural offerings.

Cultural Activities

Praça do Comércio, the grand square in Lisbon, Portugal, holds a somber significance in the context of the catastrophic 1755 earthquake. The quake, followed by a tsunami and fire, ravaged the city, reducing the opulent Ribeira Palace that once stood on the square's site to ruins.

In the aftermath, the visionary Prime Minister, Marquis of Pombal, orchestrated a monumental reconstruction effort. The square, renamed Praça do Comércio, became the centerpiece of the new city plan, a testament to resilience and rebirth. Its symmetrical buildings, adorned with galleries and topped with towers, replaced the former palace, symbolizing the city's determination to rise from the ashes.

The equestrian statue of King José I, erected in the square's center in 1775, stands as a poignant reminder of the monarch's leadership during the tragedy. The statue depicts the king astride a horse trampling serpents, a symbolic representation of his triumph over adversity.

Today, Praça do Comércio serves as a vibrant public space, a bustling hub of commerce and a poignant reminder of Lisbon's indomitable spirit. Its historical significance, intertwined with the scars of the 1755 earthquake, adds a layer of depth and resilience to its architectural grandeur.

1755 Earthquake

Praça do Comércio, formerly known as Terreiro do Paço, is a grand square in Lisbon, Portugal, holding significant historical and commercial importance. After the devastating 1755 earthquake, the square was redesigned as part of the reconstruction of the Baixa Pombalina, the city's downtown area. The reconstruction was led by the Marquis of Pombal, who envisioned the square as a commercial hub.

The square's symmetrical buildings, painted in vibrant yellow, house various government departments and commercial establishments. The ground floors feature arcades, creating a lively and bustling atmosphere. The square's proximity to the Tagus River made it a crucial center for maritime trade, with ships unloading their goods directly onto the square.

Today, Praça do Comércio remains a vital commercial center, hosting numerous shops, restaurants, and cafes. The square is also a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors with its architectural beauty and historical significance. The equestrian statue of King José I, located in the center of the square, commemorates the monarch who oversaw the reconstruction of Lisbon after the earthquake.

The square's strategic location and historical significance make it a unique and fascinating place to explore. Whether you're interested in history, architecture, or simply soaking up the vibrant atmosphere, Praça do Comércio is a must-visit destination in Lisbon.

Commercial Center

Praça do Comércio, a grand square in Lisbon, Portugal, stands as an iconic symbol of the city's maritime history and architectural grandeur. Once the site of the royal palace, it was rebuilt after the devastating earthquake of 1755 and transformed into a bustling commercial hub. The square's imposing yellow buildings, adorned with elegant arches, create a harmonious ensemble that frames the vast expanse of the Tagus River.

At the heart of the square stands the majestic Rua Augusta Arch, a triumphal gateway that celebrates Lisbon's resilience. Its intricate carvings depict scenes from Portuguese history, including the reconstruction of the city after the earthquake. Ascending to the arch's viewing platform rewards visitors with panoramic vistas of the square, the river, and the Alfama district beyond.

Another focal point is the equestrian statue of King Joseph I, a testament to the monarch's role in rebuilding Lisbon. The bronze figure, poised atop a rearing horse, captures the spirit of the city's rebirth. The statue's pedestal is adorned with allegorical figures representing the virtues of strength, wisdom, and justice.

Praça do Comércio is not merely a historical landmark but also a vibrant gathering place. Its spacious cobblestone expanse invites leisurely strolls, while the surrounding cafes and restaurants offer respite from the city's hustle and bustle. The square's proximity to the riverfront promenade and the Alfama district makes it an ideal starting point for exploring Lisbon's rich tapestry of history, culture, and charm.

Iconic Square

Praça do Comércio, the grand waterfront square in Lisbon, holds a captivating allure for those seeking to delve into the city's maritime heritage. Once the bustling hub of Portugal's global empire, the square's grandeur reflects the wealth and power that flowed through this gateway to the world. The majestic Arco da Rua Augusta, a triumphal arch adorned with intricate sculptures, stands as a testament to Lisbon's resilience after the devastating 1755 earthquake.

Beneath the arch lies the Cais das Colunas, a colonnaded walkway that once welcomed royal visitors arriving by boat. Today, it offers stunning views of the Tagus River and the iconic 25 de Abril Bridge. The square's mosaic-like cobblestones, meticulously arranged in a wave pattern, evoke the maritime spirit that permeates the area.

At the water's edge, the Quay of Pillars, with its two imposing pillars, marks the spot where Portuguese explorers disembarked with treasures from distant lands. The nearby Lisboa Story Centre provides an immersive journey through Lisbon's history, including the pivotal role played by Praça do Comércio.

As the sun sets, the square transforms into a vibrant gathering place. Locals and tourists alike stroll along the waterfront, soaking in the atmosphere and enjoying the panoramic views. The gentle lapping of the waves against the shore creates a soothing backdrop, inviting visitors to linger and savor the unique charm of this historic square.

Praça do Comércio

Did You Know?

Earthquake and Tsunami

Rebuilt by a Visionary

Architectural Beauty

Waterfront Location

Highlights from Reviews

Location