The Praça Do Comercio

The praça do Comercio is the symbol of the historical power and grandeur of the country of Portugal.

The square existed before the terrible earthquake in 1755 that destroyed the lower part of town. At the time, it was called the Terreiro de paço (palace square), and was, in fact, the residence of the royal family.

As most visitors arrived by boat, the praça do Comercio, located on the banks of the Tagus, was considered the entry gate into the city of Lisbon. It was therefore important that it be GRANDIOSE, and that is exactly the word that comes to mind when you see it for the first time...

In the center of the square, the statue of Dom José I towers over you, then, in front of that, there is a gigantic arch, which symbolizes the gates to the city: the Arco da victoria, created by Verissimo da Costa.

The square is surrounded by the colorful ministerial buildings. Underneath, you can walk through a magnificent archway of impressive architectural attributes.

The square opens out on to the pedestrian street Augusta, which takes you to the Rossio district. These places are very popular among the people of Lisbon. The praça do Comercio is also the spot where most of the tramways stop, as well as the buses.