LISBON, Portugal - Formally known as Pedro IV Square (or Praça de D. Pedro IV in Portuguese), Rossio Square has been a vibrant public commons in Lisbon for centuries. At its center stands a column topped with a statue of King Pedro IV (Peter IV; 1798-1834) that was erected in 1870.
Photograph by David Coleman. Rossio Square, known officially as Praça Dom Pedro IV but commonly referred to as Rossio, is the beating heart of Lisbon. This historic square has been a central meeting point and a stage for public gatherings since the Middle Ages. Located in the Baixa district, Rossio connects the old city with the newer parts of Lisbon, making it a crucial nexus of urban life. The square's most distinctive feature is its pavement, an exemplary display of Portuguese craftsmanship. The intricate wave-pattern cobblestones, known as calçada portuguesa, create an optical illusion of movement, adding a unique visual dynamism to the space. This pavement style has become iconic of Lisbon and is replicated in other parts of the Portuguese-speaking world. At the center of Rossio stands a monument to King Pedro IV, the first emperor of Brazil, atop a tall column. The square is further adorned with two Baroque fountains, which have been fixtures since the 19th century. On the north side, the square is dominated by the stunning façade of Dona Maria II National Theatre, a neoclassical building that anchors Lisbon's theater district. Rossio is ringed by cafes and shops, including some of Lisbon's oldest and most famous cafes. These establishments, such as Café Nicola, have been central to Lisbon's intellectual and cultural life for centuries. The south side of the square opens onto Rua Augusta, the main pedestrian shopping street in the Baixa district. On the west side of the square stands Rossio train station, a striking example of Manueline architecture, characterized by its horseshoe-shaped arches and intricate stonework. This station, which connects Lisbon to Sintra, adds to the square's role as a transport hub. Rossio Square continues to be a focal point of Lisbon life, hosting festivals, protests, and daily gatherings. Its central location, historic significance, and lively atmosphere make it an essential stop for anyone seeking to experience the pulse of Lisb
Size: 4476px × 6706px
Location: Rossio Square, Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
Photo credit: © David Coleman | Have Camera Will Travel / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No
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