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Commerce Square
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Commerce Square, the most important in Lisbon.

The heart of a city is its main square, and Lisbon is no exception to this rule. Undoubtedly, in the Portuguese capital we find very beautiful places, but none compares with the Commerce Square. This is right in front of the Rua Augusta Arch, and it is a visit that you cannot miss.

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Visits in Lisbon

The Castle and the Earthquake

The Iberian Peninsula is mainly divided between Spain and Portugal, the latter is located to the east, and its geography makes it an ideal region for maritime trade and navigation.


However, this privileged position was also a weakness, still unknown to the Portuguese of 1755. On September 1 of that year, a powerful earthquake shook the city of Lisbon to its foundations, destroying almost all the buildings in the metropolis.


The walls, houses, churches, temples and ports succumbed to the force of the earthquake. But this would not be all, since only a few minutes later, the Portuguese capital was devastated by a tsunami and numerous fires.


Such a natural disaster was unprecedented in the region, and not even the royal palace of the Portuguese kings was spared. Today, where the old castle of the monarchy used to be, is the Commerce Square, a place that symbolized the rebirth of Lisbon, which stood after the catastrophe.

Lisbon

What to see in the Commerce Square?

Center and soul of the city, the Commerce Square is the favorite of the locals and the busiest meeting point in the entire city. A huge variety of cultural events and celebrations take place here, including Christmas and the end of the year.


Likewise, in the Commerce Square we find two of the most representative buildings of modern Lisbon. The first is the Rua Augusta Arch, a magnificent Roman-style triumphal arch that was built as a tribute to the courage of the people of Lisbon. Like the square, the Rua Augusta Arch was part of the city’s restoration plan, which had to be recovered after the earthquake.


The other point of great interest that we find in the Commerce Square is the equestrian statue of Joao I. The sculpture of this Portuguese king rises on an imposing pedestal, and is protected by a small fence, in order to avoid possible damage.


In the same way, the surroundings of the square are always full of life. There are several cafes and restaurants here, as well as several public transport stops. The southern area of this urban space connects with the Tagus River, and from there the boats that explore the banks leave and go out to sea.

How is the Commerce Square

When to visit the Commerce Square?

If you are going to visit Lisbon, you have to add the Commerce Square to your itinerary. This is the starting point for other parts of the city, such as the Barrio Baixa and walks along the Tagus River.

 

In addition, the atmosphere in the Plaza del Comercio is very lively and active, perfect for enjoying everyday life in Lisbon. Rest assured that getting to know it is an experience that you will love, especially if you have the opportunity to enjoy its various fairs, have fun with its nightlife and create the best memories of your stay in Lisbon.

What is the Plaza del Comercio like?

How to get

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