Commerce Square in Lisbon is a landmark of historical and architectural significance. Spanning 30,600 square meters, this plaza is situated along the Tagus River and was once the site of the Royal Palace of Ribeira, which was destroyed in the 1755 Lisbon earthquake. This catastrophe also obliterated the royal archive, containing over 200,000 books and centuries of records.

The area's reconstruction was spearheaded by the Marquis of Pombal as part of his revitalization of the Baixa district. The result was a U-shaped layout with symmetrical government buildings flanking the square and opening towards the river. Its new occupants, customs and port authorities, gave rise to the square's new name – "Commerce." The design included ground-floor arcades and two towers inspired by the former Ribeira Palace.

At the center of the square stands an equestrian statue of King José I, unveiled in 1775. The statue honors the King’s role in rebuilding Lisbon and features motifs such as an elephant, symbolizing Portugal's colonial empire.

The plaza’s northern side is marked by the triumphal Augusta Street Arch. Completed in the 19th century, this arch celebrates Lisbon's resilience with sculptures of historical figures such as Vasco da Gama and the Marquis of Pombal.

Adjacent to the square is the Columns Pier. Its marble steps once served as a ceremonial entrance to the city during Portugal’s maritime era.

Tragedy touched the square in 1908 when King Carlos I and his heir Luís Filipe were assassinated here. This event presaged the fall of the Portuguese monarchy and the establishment of the Republic in 1910. Today, a plaque commemorates this pivotal moment in Portuguese history.

The western tower of Commerce Square contains a branch of the Museum of Lisbon.

The square itself is a vibrant hub of activity. Its arcades house souvenir shops, cafes, and Lisbon’s oldest café, Martinho da Arcada. Commerce Square hosts annual events like Portugal Day celebrations and offers visitors a chance to enjoy views of the Tagus River, the 25th of April Bridge, and passing ships. Accessible via trams and ferries, the plaza is both a historic site and a bustling meeting point for locals and tourists.

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For a glimpse of what the square looked like before the 1755 earthquake, you can find reproductions of contemporary engravings from the 17th and 18th centuries and a modern ceramic tile mural at the Santa Luzia Viewpoint in Alfama.

Saint George’s Castle is a historic fortress in Lisbon’s Santa Maria Maior district. Its hilltop location has been occupied since the 8th century BC, with fortifications dating back to the 2nd century BC. Over time, the site reflected influences from the Celts, Phoenicians, Greeks, Carthaginians, Romans, Suebi, Visigoths, and Moors. The Berbers added the so-called “Moorish Encirclement” walls in the 10th century, and the Moors held the castle until the Christian Reconquista.

The castle played a pivotal role during the 1147 Siege of Lisbon when it was captured in a major Second Crusade victory. This fortified stronghold became a royal residence in 1255 and was named after Saint George in the 14th century by King John I to symbolize ties with England. In the later period, it served as a military barracks and home to Portugal’s National Archive. Although damaged in the 1755 earthquake, the 20th-century restorations regained its prominence as a national monument and cultural site.

Within this castle complex, you'll find medieval architecture with ten towers, a dry moat, and steep hillsides for natural defense. Highlights include the terraced Arms Square with cannons and a statue of Afonso Henriques, the first king of Portugal, and the Tower of Ulysses, which houses a camera obscura offering shows (every 20 minutes) in various languages, including English, Portuguese, and Spanish. The citadel's primary entrance features a 19th-century gate adorned with Portugal's coat of arms, Queen Maria II's name, and the date 1846.

Inside, visitors can enjoy a range of amenities, including restaurants, cafes, a wine bar, an ice cream stand, and public restrooms. Peacocks roam freely throughout the grounds, particularly in one of the primary dining areas. While dining within the castle walls may be slightly pricier than in the surrounding areas, it is not excessively so. Alternatively, you have the option of bringing your own food and beverages. Admission is reasonably priced and children enter for free.

Saint George’s Castle also includes the ruins of a royal palace, such as the Casa Ogival, which is now home to the Olissipónia multimedia exhibit detailing Lisbon’s history. Gardens and historical artifacts enhance the experience, making the castle a symbol of Lisbon’s rich past and an essential cultural landmark.

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Although the journey to the castle involves a steep uphill climb, it provides a delightful stroll through the narrow streets of historic Lisbon, with numerous opportunities to stop and savor local cuisine. Alternatively, you can take cable car #28 to admire the neighborhood's charming and diverse architecture, providing excellent photo opportunities.

The Grace Viewpoint in Lisbon is a celebrated vantage point situated atop the southern slope of Santo André Hill. It offers panoramic views of the city's historic center stretching, on clear days, to the Tagus River estuary.

This viewpoint is not only a daytime delight but also a magical evening spot as the setting sun casts a golden hue over Lisbon and the city lights begin to twinkle. The atmosphere here is perpetually vibrant, enhanced by performances from local musicians and singers, while the adjacent Esplanada da Graça café remains abuzz with activity.

Though many tourists stop at this viewpoint, they often overlook nearby attractions such as the expansive Grace Convent, noted for its exquisite tile paintings and baroque architecture. Other local sights include the 19th-century Villa Sousa and the serene Cerca Park Garden, with a quaint fountain and a bronze sculpture, positioned below the viewpoint.

From here, visitors can enjoy a 160-degree view encompassing central and western Lisbon. To the southwest, prominent visible landmarks include Saint George's Castle, the Carmo Church ruins, and the April 25 bridge. The viewpoint also overlooks the Mouraria neighborhood and Martim Moniz plaza and offers glimpses of distant sites like the Monsanto Forest and the Amoreiras Towers.

Despite its common designation as the Grace viewpoint, its official title "Sophia de Mello Breyner Andresen" honors the esteemed 20th-century Portuguese poet revered for her fairy tales and the official Portuguese translations of Shakespeare. Her affinity for this location, where she drew much inspiration, led to its renaming following her death in 2004 and is now marked by a bust near the Grace Convent entrance.

This viewpoint frequently marks the conclusion of a journey for those ascending the hill from Alfama and Saint George's Castle. The series of steps leading to it are paved with traditional cobblestone designs.

For an elevated cityscape experience, make your way up to the Lady of the Mount viewpoint, a somewhat undiscovered gem among Lisbon's "miradouros", despite its distinction as the highest. From this serene square shaded by pine trees, you'll be treated to a captivating panoramic vista of the entire city. This locale is particularly cherished by avid photographers seeking the perfect shots of the charming old districts of Mouraria, the São Jorge Castle, downtown Lisbon, the Carmo Convent, Monsanto, the Tagus River estuary with the "Sea of Straw" near its mouth, and even farther horizons.

Another noteworthy attraction here, known to the initiated, is the chapel of Our Lady of the Mount, or "Nossa Senhora do Monte." The original chapel, erected in 1147, succumbed to the ravages of an earthquake in 1755 and was replaced by the current structure in the late 1700s. This chapel is renowned for its protective association with women during childbirth, drawing expectant mothers in search of divine blessings. Nearby, you'll find a small statue of the Virgin.

Adding to the charm of the place, there's an ancient wall adorned with the inscription: "Boa viagem. Lisboa espera por ti," which translates to "Have a nice trip! Lisbon awaits you." The tiles on this wall carry the echoes of a bygone era, reminiscent of a time when Portugal was the land of explorers, emigrants, and soldiers.

Why You Should Pay a Visit:
This is one of Lisbon's less-traveled viewpoints, yet it claims the title of the highest, offering some of the most breathtaking city views. It's an ideal spot for capturing memorable photographs. While there isn't a permanent café on-site, you can usually find mobile vendors serving coffee, adult beverages, and snacks, often with more interesting options than the standard kiosk offerings.

Once an integral component of an oil refinery, the Vasco da Gama Tower now stands as a prominent feature, soaring to a height of 145 meters (equivalent to 476 feet), thereby securing its distinction as Lisbon's loftiest edifice. Presently, this iconic structure has been seamlessly integrated into the opulent five-star establishment known as the Myriad Sana Hotel, often hailed as Lisbon's counterpart to Dubai's Burj Al Arab. From its lofty perch, the tower commands a vista that gazes out towards the boundless expanse of the Atlantic Ocean, while simultaneously casting its gaze downstream upon the picturesque cityscape of Lisbon.

The genesis of this remarkable tower can be traced back to Expo '98 - the world trade fair hosted in Lisbon. Its inaugural construction was a testament to the commemoration of Vasco da Gama's legendary voyage, which, in 1498, marked the pioneering European arrival in India via the medium of sail. Positioned at the tower's base, one encounters a three-story structure that served as the European Union's pavilion during Expo '98. Meanwhile, at the top, an observation deck was initially crafted to emulate the appearance of a ship's observation basket. Adjacent to this lofty vantage point, a distinguished restaurant graced visitors with panoramic vistas that encompassed the entire panorama of Lisbon. During that era, three glass elevators conveyed visitors to the tower's zenith. Subsequently, the tower found itself in the hotel complex, resulting in the cessation of public access to its upper reaches.

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For those who seek to savor the tower's grandeur without venturing within, a convenient alternative lies in a cable car journey that connects the tower to the adjoining marina. It's actually a great starting point for the short cable car trip to the other end of the park.

In 1998, Europe witnessed the inauguration of its lengthiest bridge, spanning a remarkable 12.345 kilometers (equivalent to 7.6 miles). This monumental engineering feat was undertaken with two primary objectives in mind: first, to establish a vital link between the Expo '98 grounds and the southern bank of the Tagus River, thereby mitigating the chronic traffic congestion that had beleaguered the sole existing river-crossing, the 25th of April Bridge in Lisbon; second, to commemorate the 500th anniversary of the historic odyssey embarked upon by the illustrious Portuguese navigator, Vasco da Gama, an expedition that heralded the opening of pivotal maritime trade routes connecting Europe to Asia.

The bridge's construction came a price tag of $1.1 billion, a testament to the significance it bore for Portugal, a nation that had been somewhat belated in its infrastructural development. Noteworthy is the bridge's unique design, characterized by its proximity to the water's surface and the deliberate incorporation of towers and cables, cleverly evoking the sails of a caravel ship, harkening back to Portugal's maritime heritage.

Of paramount importance is the bridge's remarkable resilience, boasting a projected lifespan of 120 years and possessing the capacity to withstand seismic forces 4.5 times more potent than the cataclysmic tremor that ravaged Lisbon in 1755, nearly bringing the city to its knees.

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Consider ascending one of the taller edifices within Nations' Park ("Parque das Nações") for a panoramic aerial perspective.

Nestled within lovely gardens filled with leafy pathways, vibrant blooms, and waddling ducks, the museum of the esteemed Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation is a true treasure trove showcasing the exquisite collections amassed by Calouste Gulbenkian, an Armenian oil magnate. The museum's holdings are divided into two parts: one dedicated to Egyptian, Greek, Roman, Islamic, and Asian art, and the other devoted to European acquisitions.

The caliber of the artworks on display is truly magnificent, warranting a minimum of two hours to fully appreciate their splendor. Throughout the museum, informative notes in English are readily available, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the pieces. Moreover, the Foundation's main building frequently hosts captivating temporary exhibitions, adding a dynamic element to the visitor experience. During the summer months, the lush grounds come alive with classical music performances, further enriching the atmosphere.

A leisurely stroll through the picturesque gardens leads to the Modern Collection of the foundation, acclaimed as the most comprehensive assembly of modern Portuguese art in the world. Comprising over 9,000 pieces from the 20th and 21st centuries, including sculptures, paintings, and photography, this collection represents a rich tapestry of artistic expression. While predominantly showcasing the works of Portuguese artists, notable international figures such as British artist David Hockney and renowned sculptor Antony Gormley also grace the collection with their presence.

Standard tickets provide access to both collections, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in a diverse artistic journey. Additionally, the sculpture-dotted gardens can be explored at no charge, providing a serene and visually striking environment for leisurely strolls and contemplation.

In addition to Belém's historic landmarks, an equally remarkable attraction awaits: an extraordinary collection of modern art amassed by the renowned business magnate and art connoisseur José Berardo, often hailed as Portugal's counterpart to Charles Saatchi or François Pinault. With approximately 1,000 works by over 500 artists, this gallery serves as a treasure trove chronicling a century of modern and contemporary art across a diverse range of mediums, including painting, sculpture, photography, and cutting-edge video installations.

While not all pieces from the extensive collection are exhibited simultaneously, visitors are treated to the works of some of the world's most esteemed modern artists. Depending on the timing of your visit, you may encounter Andy Warhol's iconic "Judy Garland", Eric Fischl's awe-inspiring panels depicting sunbathers, or Chris Ofili's provocative "Adoration of Captain Shit", crafted using genuine dung. Noteworthy highlights also include Picasso's "Tête de femme" (1909), an excellent representation of the Spanish artist's Cubist style, Jeff Koons' whimsical "Poodle" (1991), striking sculptures by Alberto Carneiro, etchings by Paula Rego, and a captivating selection of photographs by Fernando Lemos.

Why You Should Visit:
An ideal destination to unravel the enduring enigma of modern art. The exhibits are thoughtfully curated and showcased within an equally remarkable building. On the lower floors, you'll find engaging temporary exhibitions, while the upper floors take you on a comprehensive journey through the history of contemporary European art.

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When you're ready to indulge in some refreshments, consider visiting the café located in the adjacent conference center. It offers a serene ambiance, devoid of crowds, and provides excellent value for a tea, coffee, or lunch experience.

The Garden of Saint Peter of Alcantara is a picturesque viewpoint in central Lisbon, offering panoramic views of the Baixa and Mouraria neighborhoods, with the iconic Saint George's Castle prominently in sight.

Divided into two terraces, the garden caters to diverse experiences. The upper terrace features a lively atmosphere with musicians, pop-up bars, and a charming fountain alongside a monument to Eduardo Coelho, founder of the local Daily News paper, and a statue of a newsboy, reflecting Bairro Alto’s printing heritage. In contrast, the lower terrace offers a serene retreat, adorned with flower beds, sculptures of Greek and Roman figures like Minerva and Ulysses, and a small waterfall.

Historically, the garden traces its roots to a 17th-century aqueduct project, later interrupted by the 1755 earthquake. The centerpiece Baroque fountain, relocated from Bemposta Palace, adds to its historical charm. The garden acts as a crossroads, linking the historic Baixa district, the upscale Príncipe Real and the lively Bairro Alto neighborhoods, blending elements of history, class, and social vibrancy.

Visitors can relax on benches, enjoy local music, or indulge in food and drinks from nearby stalls. Across the street, the Port Wine Institute offers over 300 varieties of Port wine, perfect for a cozy tasting or a waterside picnic. Dynamic street art at the Urban Art Gallery adds a contemporary flair.

Accessibility is enhanced by the Glória Lift, a vintage funicular connecting the garden to Restorers Square, bypassing a steep hill. The traditional Miradouro bar and the nearby Lumi Rooftop offer further refreshment and dining options. A unique 1952 tile map in the garden helps visitors identify Lisbon’s landmarks, enhancing their exploration of the city.

With its blend of history, culture, and scenic beauty, the Garden of Saint Peter of Alcantara is a must-visit spot for anyone exploring Lisbon.

Located in Lisbon's Chiado neighborhood, overlooking Rossio Square, the Convent of Our Lady of Mount Carmel is both a historical landmark and a cultural treasure, as well as a lasting reminder of the devastation caused by the 1755 earthquake. Founded in 1389, the convent housed Carmelite friars up to 1423. It flourished in the 16th century, with 70 clergy residing within its walls.

The 1755 earthquake destroyed the convent’s library of 5,000 volumes and caused severe structural damage, leaving its Gothic church in ruins. Following minor repairs undertaken in the 19th century, the building saw various uses, including as police quarters, a sawmill, and later a military station. In 1834, the site transitioned to secular use after religious orders were expelled from Portugal.

In 1864, the Association of Portuguese Archaeologists took ownership, transforming the ruined convent into a museum. Efforts to restore the site continued into the 20th century, with significant work undertaken in 1902 and the 1950s. However, the structure sustained further damage in the 1969 earthquake. Five years later, the convent played a key role in Portugal's Carnation Revolution, serving as a stronghold for the Estado Novo regime before its surrender to pro-democracy forces.

Architecturally, the Carmo Convent showcases Gothic design. Its church, featuring a Latin cross layout, includes a partially destroyed rose window and surviving pointed arches. The stone roof collapsed during the 1755 earthquake and was never rebuilt, giving the church its unique open-air appearance.

Today, the convent is home to the Carmo Archaeological Museum, displaying artifacts spanning Portuguese history. The museum houses Gothic tombs, Roman and Visigoth objects, and Moorish painted tin-glazed ceramic tilework. The former apse chapels have been repurposed as exhibition spaces, with one of them displaying remarkable pre-historic relics excavated from an ancient fortification dating from 3500 to 1500 BC.

The entrance fee is reasonable, and there is much to explore, including a well-executed multimedia presentation recounting the site's history. You'll need about 80-90 minutes to get a comprehensive look, though you might want to save some extra time for the surrounding terraces, offering splendid vistas of the Castle of the Moors.

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If you're looking for a way to get back down the hill into the city, your best bet is to take the Santa Justa Lift. Located just to the right of the convent, it is accessible via a footbridge through the Bellalisa Restaurant.

The Santa Justa Lift, also known as the Carmo Lift, is a distinctive attraction in Lisbon. This historic elevator, built in the early 20th century, is the only remaining vertical lift in the capital. Others, such as the Glória and Bica lifts, are funicular railways. This lift was designed to address the city's challenging terrain, linking the lower Baixa district to the elevated Carmo Square. Construction began in 1900, and the lift was inaugurated in 1901, initially operating on steam power before transitioning to electricity in 1907.

The Neo-Gothic iron structure, 45 meters tall, features intricate metalwork, a double-lattice design, and two wood-paneled cabins that transport passengers across seven stories. Originally accommodating 24 people, the cabins were later upgraded to hold 29 passengers. A spiral staircase and walkway connect the lift to nearby attractions, offering panoramic views of landmarks, such as Saint George's Castle, the Tagus River, Rossio Square, and the Baixa district, from its observation deck.

Designated a National Monument in 2002, the Santa Justa Lift underwent renovations to preserve its historical significance and was reopened to the public in 2006. It remains a vital link and a tourist attraction, embodying innovative engineering from its era. Visitors also use the lift to access key sites like Carmo Square, Saint Roch Church, and the Bairro Alto neighborhood.

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It's important to note that ascending the iron spiral staircase requires a head for heights. However, if you can conquer any nervousness, the views are truly spectacular and well worth the effort. Additionally, keep in mind that the top platform is quite exposed, so it's advisable to check the weather conditions before planning your visit.
If you find the queue too long, consider entering the cork store on Rua do Carmo, ascending the stairs, and then crossing the street via the walkway. Although this option requires physical effort to climb the stairs, it saves time and money while allowing for more opportunities to savor the views along the way.

The King Pedro IV Square, commonly known as Rossio, is a historic square in Lisbon’s Pombaline Downtown. Dating back to the Middle Ages, it has been a central site for public life, hosting events, from celebrations and revolts to bullfights and executions. The square’s centerpiece, the Column of Pedro IV, honors the Portuguese king for whom it is named.

Rossio became prominent in the 13th and 14th centuries as Lisbon expanded. Its colloquial name derives from the Portuguese term for "commons," reflecting its origins as communal land. In the 15th century, the Palace of Estaus was built on its northern side to house visiting dignitaries. Later, it became the headquarters of the Inquisition, and the square hosted public executions, including the first ritual of public penance, known as the “act of faith,” in 1540. On its eastern side, the All Saints Royal Hospital was constructed in 1504 but was destroyed in the 1755 earthquake, which devastated most of Lisbon. The earthquake spared only the Palace of Independence near the northeast corner, where Portuguese noblemen plotted against Spanish rule in 1640.

The post-earthquake reconstruction of Rossio defined its Pombaline architectural style. The Bandeira Arch, on the south side, connects Rossio to nearby streets like Rua Augusta and Commerce Square. The 19th century brought further transformation, with the Queen Maria II National Theatre replacing the infamous Inquisition Palace demolished in 1836. Designed in a neoclassical style, the theater features a statue of playwright Gil Vicente, a figure once censored by the Inquisition.

In the 19th century, Rossio gained its famous Portuguese wavelike mosaic pavement and two baroque bronze fountains situated at its southern and northern perimeters. The Rossio Train Station, built in 1887 with a neo-Manueline façade and striking horseshoe entry arches, added a grand feature to the northwest side. Cafés like Café Nicola and shops such as Ginjinha (selling the local sweet cherry liqueur) have made the square a popular social hub, attracting both locals and tourists.

Other noteworthy attractions nearby include the historic Santo Domingo Square, featuring a church, a memorial commemorating the Jewish victims of the 1506 massacre, and the neighboring Fig Tree Square. To the left of the theater, you'll find the Hotel Avenida Palace and Carmo Street, among other prominent landmarks. Finally, just behind the theater, the Gates of Santo Antão Street awaits, renowned as a famous "food street" replete with numerous cafes and restaurants.