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Comercio Square

Lisbon's monumental riverside square



Comercio Square, Lisbon


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 Belém, 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 cafés, 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 José 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.

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Praça do Comércio, Lisbon

Visitor's Guide

Where: Baixa (Downtown)
How: Metro - Terreiro do Paço station



Attractions 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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