Lose yourself in the iconic commerce square (Praça do Comércio)

Praça do Comércio is one of the largest squares in Europe

The largest and most famous square in Lisbon is located near the Tagus river and is a work of reference the pombaline reconstruction. The Praça do Comércio was rebuilt in the eighteenth century, after the earthquake of 1755, and was previously called the Palace Square which housed the royal palace. At the time of discovery, between the fifteenth and sixteenth century, this was the center of life of Lisbon and its gateway to the sea.

The entrance to the Praça do Comércio happened to be repainted by the Triumphal Arch of Rua Augusta and in its center was placed the statue of Don Jose I , with direct access to the Tagus through the Cais das Colunas . It is one of the largest squares in Europe, occupying 36 000 m2.

This square formerly served as prime entry of the capital, as for the illustrious came in Lisbon through the Cais das Colunas. Currently the square is used for cultural events, year passes and sporadic shows. It also contains an information center for tourists, the Lisbon Story Centre Museum, which tells the story of Lisbon; the oldest cafe in Lisbon, Martinho da Arcada, a historic lodge and other restaurants and pavement cafes.

Chronological history of Praça do Comércio:

- 1511 – The royal family's changes their official residence , going from São Jorge Castle to Palace of Ribeira.

- 1755 – The Palace is destroyed by the earthquake and its reconstruction is taken over by the Marquis of Pombal. The equestrian statue in the center of the square is erected in honor of José I.

- 1910 – With the Republican Revolution the square was colored in pink. Later the buildings of the square would be repainted in its original color, yellow.