Right next to the Tagus River, Praça do Comércio, also known as Terreiro do Paço, is one of the most important places in Portugal's history.
For centuries, this square has welcomed kings, merchants, explorers and visitors arriving by sea. It has witnessed royal ceremonies, political events and one of the greatest disasters in European history.
Here are 7 facts that make it one of Lisbon's most fascinating places.
1️⃣ It was once home to the Portuguese royal family
Before 1755, this was the site of the Paço da Ribeira, the royal palace built by King Manuel I.
Its location next to the river allowed ships arriving from Africa, Asia and Brazil to unload valuable goods close to the palace.
The palace was destroyed by the 1755 earthquake, the tsunami and the fires that followed.
2️⃣ It became the symbol of Lisbon's rebirth
After the earthquake, the Marquis of Pombal led the reconstruction of downtown Lisbon.
Praça do Comércio was redesigned as a large open square facing the river, becoming the new maritime gateway to the city.
3️⃣ Why does it have two names?
Many locals still call it Terreiro do Paço, because this was where the royal palace once stood.
The official name, Praça do Comércio, reflects its new role as the centre of trade and government after the reconstruction.
4️⃣ The statue of King José I
At the centre of the square stands the equestrian statue of King José I, unveiled in 1775.
It was the first large public bronze statue built in Portugal and celebrates the country's recovery after the earthquake.
5️⃣ The Rua Augusta Arch
The Arco da Rua Augusta connects Praça do Comércio with the Baixa district.
Completed in 1873, you can climb to the top for one of the best panoramic views in Lisbon.
6️⃣ The Cais das Colunas
The two marble columns by the river marked the ceremonial entrance to Lisbon.
Kings, ambassadors and many important visitors arrived here by boat before entering the city.
7️⃣ A place where history changed
On 1 February 1908, King Carlos I and Crown Prince Luís Filipe were assassinated in Terreiro do Paço while returning to Lisbon.
The event shocked the country and was one of the key moments that led to the end of the Portuguese monarchy two years later.
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