LISBON, Portugal — A charming sidestreet branches off from Praça do Comércio (Commerce Square) in Lisbon's historic Baixa district. The street showcases typical Pombaline-style architecture with its uniform facades, wrought-iron balconies, and tiled walls. This grid-patterned layout, characteristic of the area's 18th-century urban planning, offers a glimpse into Lisbon's post-earthquake reconstruction and everyday city life.
Photograph by David Coleman. The sidestreets branching off from Praça do Comércio (Commerce Square) in Lisbon are integral components of the Baixa district, the heart of the city's downtown area. These streets are prime examples of the innovative urban planning implemented during the rebuilding of Lisbon after the catastrophic earthquake of 1755. The reconstruction, overseen by the Marquis of Pombal, resulted in a logical grid pattern of streets that was revolutionary for its time. The Pombaline style, named after the Marquis, is evident in the uniform, elegant facades lining these sidestreets. Typically four to five stories high, these buildings feature large windows, wrought-iron balconies, and often display traditional Portuguese azulejo tiles. The ground floors usually house small shops, cafes, or traditional businesses, many of which have been operating for generations. These streets play a crucial role in the day-to-day life of Lisbon. While Praça do Comércio serves as a grand, open space for public gatherings and tourism, the adjoining sidestreets offer a more intimate look at local Lisbon life. Residents and visitors alike traverse these cobblestone pathways, which provide a network of connections throughout the Baixa district. The layout of these streets was designed not only for aesthetic appeal but also for practical purposes. The grid system allows for better air circulation and natural light, while the uniform building heights were intended to distribute earthquake forces more evenly, making the structures more resistant to seismic activity. Today, these sidestreets continue to be vibrant areas of commerce and culture. They host a mix of traditional Portuguese businesses and modern shops, restaurants, and cafes. The blend of historical architecture and contemporary urban life makes these streets microcosms of Lisbon's ability to preserve its rich heritage while embracing modernity. For photographers and tourists, these streets offer countless opportunit
Size: 6706px × 4476px
Location: Praca do Comercio, Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
Photo credit: © David Coleman | Have Camera Will Travel / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No
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