Portugal: Lisbon, Praça do Comércio

At the edge of Lisbon’s Baixa district is Praça do Comércio. The expansive plaza is bordered to the south by Tagus estuary. Praça do Comércio was the location of a significant moment in Portuguese history. On 1 February 1908, the square was the scene of the assassination of Carlos I, the penultimate King of Portugal, and his heir Luís Filipe. The assassins were members of the Republican Party that two years later overthrew the Portuguese monarchy.

Today the largest of Lisbon’s plazas serves a more peaceful role. Cool arcades surround a square with a statue of King José I at the center. It is a gathering place for residents, tour groups, and pigeons.

Covered walkways line three sides of the plaza.