Visit Praca do Comercio: One of the Most Significant Lisbon's Landmarks

Praca do Comercio, founded in the 15th century, is the place where Lisbon's development, connected with the time of great geographical discoveries, started. The first name, Palace Square, is connected with the first building on it, the royal palace of Ribeira. Then was an international maritime trade stage, when a port appeared, a shipyard, India House, and other administrative buildings along the river. However, the proximity to the water during the earthquake ruined Palace Square.

Nowadays, in the center of the square stands an equestrian statue of the Portuguese King Jose I, who was the head of the country during these troubled times and restored the city from scratch.

The Arc de Triomphe serves as a kind of gateway to the square. By the way, there is an excellent observation deck on it, where you can climb and look down on the Trade Square when you go on the Lisbon city walking tour. During various city events, a stage, screens, and tents are installed here, and the square has become one of the busiest Portuguese plazas in the city. By the way, on weekdays there are very few people here although it may seem so because of its enormous size. On weekends, Commerce Square hosts all sorts of events, including street performers.

Evidence of the fact that there was once a royal palace is a pair of symmetrical houses near the water, the design of which is very reminiscent of the towers of a ruined castle. One of them now houses the Lisbon Museum. Another echo from palace times and Lisbon's cultural heritage is the marble staircase flanked by two columns (Cais das Colunas). According to one version, the staircase existed before the earthquake and led directly to the palace. For many years, it served to receive important guests, including Queen Elizabeth II of England. Well, now this is a favorite place for locals and tourists to watch the sunset.

The square opens up a panoramic view of the Tagus River and a breathtaking view of the 25th of April Bridge. It is one of the most beautiful tourist spots in Lisbon, especially at sunset. In terms of day trips from Lisbon, stroll along the 18th-century houses and the promenade, visit the Arc de Triomphe viewpoint, and listen to street musicians perform. It's highly recommended to try the national dishes of Portugal at Martinho da Arcada, one of the oldest restaurants in Lisbon, located here. You can also use a ferry to enter Lisbon through the Palace Square, as kings and queens did, by sailing to the pier by the Tagus River.