COMERCIO SQUARE
Lisbon's monumental riverside square
This vast waterfront square also known as Terreiro do Paço or "the
palace's square," is where the royal palace stood for over two centuries
until 1755, when its was destroyed by the Great Earthquake. The royal
family moved to another residence in the district of Belem, and the new
arcaded buildings acted as the port of entry to the city.
On the north side is a triumphal arch and one of the city's legendary
cafes, Café Martinho da Arcada.
It dates from 1782 and was a
favorite of poets Fernando Pessoa and Almeida Garrett and of novelist Eça de
Queiroz.
In the center of the square is a statue of King Jose I showing him on horseback,
wearing his emperor's mantle, and measuring 14 meters in height counting
from the pedestal.
The city's main tourism office is located
in one of the classical building on the west side the square. Here visitors
can request information about the city or shop at a
store offering traditional Portuguese products.
Most of the government offices that once surrounded the square have now been taken over by restaurants with outdoor tables and there's a modern
interactive museum called "Lisboa Story Centre" dedicated to the history of the city.
How to Visit
Where: Baixa (Downtown)
How: Metro - Terreiro do Paço Station
Ride Lisbon's metro, buses, and trams for FREE with the Lisboa Card.
Sights Nearby
Municipal
Square - Home of the City Hall palace.
Rua
Augusta - The city's main shopping street.
Conceição
Velha Church - Church that survived the Great Earthquake.
Santa
Justa Elevator - An Eiffel Tower-like landmark with views over the city.
Rossio
Square - Lisbon's elegant main square.
Figueira
Square - Busy square and transporation hub.
São
Domingos Church - A church marked by tragedy.
Rua das
Portas de Santo Antão - Pedestrian street lined with seafood restaurants.
Rossio
Station - A monumental train station.
Restauradores
Square - Large busy square.
Avenida
da Liberdade - The city's main avenue.
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