Chiado: One of the Most Vibrant Districts in Lisbon

Chiado is one of the oldest neighborhoods in the Portuguese capital, located right in its heart, between Bairro Alto and the center of Baixa Pombalina.

The appearance of the name of the district goes back to the 16th century. Some say that the area got its name after the poet António Ribeiro (1520-1591), whose statue can be seen in the main square. According to another version, the name was given in honor of Gaspar Dias, who ran a pub on Rua Paiva Andrade. Both had the nickname “Shiado”, which can be translated as “sneaky”.

This elegant district is an intellectual center of Lisbon, which houses numerous theaters, antique shops, and bookstores. In the 19th century, this district was especially popular among writers who formed an unforgettable Bohemian atmosphere. It's highly recommended to walk through the main shopping street of Chiado, Rua Garett, which is full of antique shops. The Basilica of Nossa Senhora dos Martires, built in 1147, is the historical and architectural landmark of the street. Even though most of the buildings in Chiado are dated back to the 18th century, they were destroyed in a fire in 1988.

The renovation was carried out by the Portuguese architect Alvaro Siza Vieira. As a result of his work a unique architectural ensemble of new and restored buildings was created.

For example, in old times Chiado was used as the shortcut of the city to the surrounding farms and monasteries. The gates of the ancient fortress walls were built in the 14th century by order of King Fernando in the square of two churches, Our Lady of Loreto and Our Lady of the Incarnation. Nowadays, after the restoration, the fragments of these walls are the elements of some city buildings. 

The boundaries of the area are not clear as there are no walls or strict divisions by the streets. But it is quite clear that the Chiado area includes Largo do Carmo Square, Rua Garrett Street with the Church of the Martyrs, Camoes, and the Largo Trindade Coelho squares with the Church of Saint Roca. 

Chiado is rich not only in historical landmarks but also in culture. Not far from the theater district, there is another attraction, the Chiado Museum with rare exhibitions which definitely deserve attention. 

The best idea to explore the area is on foot as it's relatively small. While walking, the visitors should visit local shops, some of which are at least a hundred years old, and then have a rest in one of the fancy cafes to feel the atmosphere of the place.

If you stay here overnight, go to the neighboring Upper District (Bairro Alto). This area, with small streets full of bars and restaurants for every taste, is one of the most popular and crowded places in the city at night.