Camões Square, nestled in the vibrant Chiado district of Lisbon, is a captivating destination that seamlessly blends history, culture, and modern-day allure. Formally known as Praça Luís de Camões, it serves as a dynamic hub where locals and tourists converge, drawn by its captivating ambiance and the promise of unforgettable experiences. It’s also a popular meeting point for Lisbonites, adding a touch of local flavour to its cosmopolitan atmosphere. Whether you’re a history buff, a culture enthusiast, a luxury traveller, or seeking family-friendly adventures, Camões Square has something to offer everyone.
A Glimpse into History
Camões Square takes its name from Luís Vaz de Camões, one of Portugal’s most celebrated poets, whose epic poem “Os Lusíadas” immortalized the country’s Age of Discovery. The square’s history dates back to the 19th century, when architect Vitor Bastos conceived the idea of erecting a monument in honour of the esteemed poet. The monument, a magnificent bronze statue of Camões, was unveiled in 1867 in the presence of King Luís I and his father, Ferdinand II. The square, previously known as Praça do Loreto, was renamed Praça de Luís de Camões to commemorate this literary icon.
Before the monument’s construction, the square was the site of the 17th-century palace of the Marquesses of Marialva, which was tragically destroyed in the devastating earthquake of 1755. The remnants of the palace were later used as shops and shelters for the poor, known as the Loreto Hovels (Casebres do Loreto). The monument’s placement in the fashionable Chiado district transformed the square into a cultural landmark, symbolizing Lisbon’s rich literary heritage.
Exploring the Square and its Surroundings
Camões Square isn’t merely a historical landmark; it’s a vibrant hub of activity, surrounded by architectural gems, charming cafés, and elegant shops. The square itself is adorned with two distinct patterns of Portuguese pavement, known as calçada portuguesa, showcasing intricate geometric designs. The square’s overall design incorporates elements that depict the sea, a mermaid, and a caravel, reflecting Lisbon’s maritime history. Behind the statue of Luís de Camões, you’ll find a historic kiosk serving traditional Portuguese refreshments, a perfect spot to pause and soak in the ambiance.
Church of Santa Catarina
Just a stone’s throw from the square stands the Church of Santa Catarina, also known as Paulistas Church. While its exterior may appear understated, its interior is a masterpiece of Baroque opulence, creating a striking contrast that often surprises visitors. Step inside to admire the lavishly decorated ceiling, adorned with colourful stucco rococo and paintings by renowned Portuguese artists of the 18th century. The church, originally part of a convent dating back to 1647, became the parish church of Santa Catarina after the dissolution of monasteries in Portugal in 1834. The Church of Santa Catarina is open daily except Sunday, from 9 am to 1 pm and from 3 pm to 6 pm. On Sundays, it only opens for Mass at 10 am.
Cafés and Bookshops
Camões Square and its surrounding streets are a haven for bookworms and coffee aficionados. Here are a few notable spots to check out:
- A Brasileira: This iconic café, located in Largo do Chiado, is a Lisbon institution. Established in 1905 to sell Brazilian coffee, it has retained its original interior and exterior, making it a popular tourist attraction. Interestingly, a bronze statue of Fernando Pessoa, a renowned Portuguese writer, sits outside the café, although he reportedly preferred a different coffee place across the street. This quirky detail adds a touch of human interest to the café’s history.
- Livraria Bertrand: Stepping into Livraria Bertrand is like stepping back in time. Established in 1732, it holds the title of the oldest bookshop in the world. Located on Rua Garrett, this historic bookshop offers a wide selection of titles, including English-language books for expats and travellers.
- Livraria Sá da Costa: Situated on Rua Garrett, this antique bookshop primarily features Portuguese titles, some dating back centuries. However, it also boasts an impressive collection of English-language volumes to cater to the growing demand from tourists and locals.
- Livraria Simão: Tucked away on Escadinhas de São Cristóvão, this tiny bookshop is a hidden gem. With only four square meters of space, it’s said to be one of the smallest bookstores in the world. Despite its size, it houses a collection of around 4,000 books, mostly second-hand, with a focus on Portuguese literature.
- Ler Devagar: Located in the trendy LX Factory, a hub of creativity and innovation, Ler Devagar is more than just a bookshop. It’s a cultural project that has been welcoming visitors for almost 25 years. This expansive bookshop occupies roughly 600 square meters of space, with a 14-meter-high ceiling and over 40,000 new books.
Shops
Rua Garrett, the main artery of Chiado, is lined with a variety of shops, offering everything from high-end fashion to unique souvenirs. Here are a few highlights:
- Armazéns do Chiado: This shopping centre at one end of Rua Garrett offers a mix of international and local brands.
- Tous — Ourivesaria Aliança: This jewellery shop housed within a beautiful Art Nouveau façade is known for its exquisite French Baroque interior, reminiscent of the Palace of Versailles.
- A Vida Portuguesa: This charming shop offers a nostalgic collection of Portuguese products from the 1930s, 40s, and 50s. For an even wider selection, visit their flagship store in Intendente, housed in a former ceramics factory.
Luxury Experiences in Chiado
Chiado is renowned for its upscale offerings, catering to discerning travellers seeking luxurious experiences.
Hotels
| Hotel Name | Description | Starting Price |
|---|---|---|
| The Ivens, Autograph Collection | This five-star hotel boasts 87 rooms, a vibrant bar, and a unique jungle-themed ambiance. Its décor pays homage to Portugal’s Golden Age of Discovery, with rooms adorned in period colors and materials. | |
| Bairro Alto Hotel | This five-star hotel offers stunning views of the city and a charming restaurant that evokes the atmosphere of traditional Bairro Alto taverns. | |
| Pousada de Lisboa – Small Luxury Hotels Of The World | Located in a historic building, this five-star hotel offers a blend of classic elegance and modern comfort. | |
| Corpo Santo Lisbon Historical Hotel | This five-star hotel seamlessly blends historical charm with contemporary luxury. | $149 |
| Montebelo Vista Alegre Lisboa Chiado Hotel | This five-star hotel offers elegant accommodations and a rooftop terrace with panoramic city views. | |
| Martinhal Lisbon Chiado | This five-star hotel offers family-friendly accommodations with spacious suites and a kids’ club. | $117 |
Fine Dining
| Restaurant Name | Cuisine | Description | Average Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alma | Portuguese | This Michelin-starred restaurant by renowned chef Henrique Sá Pessoa offers a sophisticated take on Portuguese cuisine. | |
| Belcanto | Portuguese | This two-Michelin-starred restaurant by chef José Avillez is a culinary gem, offering innovative and exquisitely presented dishes. | |
| BAHR | Mediterranean | Located in the Bairro Alto Hotel, this elegant restaurant offers stunning city views and a menu featuring Mediterranean-inspired cuisine. | |
| Bairro do Avillez | Portuguese | This multi-concept dining space by chef José Avillez offers a variety of experiences, from traditional Portuguese tapas to gourmet pizzas. | |
| Bistro 100 Maneiras | This innovative restaurant offers a unique dining experience with a constantly evolving menu that blends Portuguese, French, and Yugoslavian influences. | €40 |
Exclusive Shopping
- Rua Garrett: This elegant shopping street is home to a variety of high-end boutiques, designer stores, and flagship stores of international brands.
- Ana Salazar: This Portuguese designer store offers chic and contemporary fashion for women.
- Loja da Burel: This boutique offers a range of contemporary accessories made from 100% wool, crafted using traditional methods. You can even visit their production workshop, located just 20 minutes from the city in the village of Manteigas, to see the artisans at work.
Family Fun in and around Camões Square
Camões Square and its surrounding areas offer a variety of activities that are perfect for families with children.
Tram 28
A ride on Tram 28 is a quintessential Lisbon experience, and a fun adventure for families. Imagine clanging through the city’s historic neighbourhoods in a vintage tram, the sun shining and the wind in your hair. This iconic tram line winds its way through Lisbon’s charming streets, offering picturesque views of the cityscape. The tram passes through Camões Square, making it a convenient starting point for your journey. Trams run every 9 to 12 minutes, and the entire loop takes about 48 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic.
Puppet Museum
The Museu da Marioneta (Puppet Museum) is a delightful attraction for children and adults alike. Housed in the 17th-century Convent of Bernardas, the museum showcases a fascinating collection of puppets from Portugal and around the world. You can reach the museum by taking Tram 25. The museum also hosts puppet shows, making it an interactive and engaging experience for families.
Picnic in the Square
Camões Square provides a lovely setting for a family picnic. Imagine grabbing some delectable pastéis de nata from Manteigaria, a renowned pastry shop nearby, and finding a comfortable spot on one of the square’s stone benches. As you savour your treats, you can enjoy the lively atmosphere of the square, watching the trams go by and the people bustling about.
Nearby Attractions
While Camões Square itself offers plenty to see and do, its central location makes it an ideal starting point for exploring other nearby attractions:
- São Roque Church: This 16th-century church is renowned for its opulent Baroque interior and its Chapel of St. John the Baptist, considered one of the most expensive chapels in the world.
- Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara: This viewpoint offers panoramic views over the city, with a beautiful garden where you can relax and soak in the scenery.
- Chiado Museum: This museum houses a collection of Portuguese contemporary art, showcasing the works of renowned artists from the 19th and 20th centuries.
- São Carlos Theater: This historic opera house, inspired by La Scala in Milan, is a cultural gem where you can enjoy opera performances and other events.
- Carmo Church: The ruins of this Gothic church, destroyed in the 1755 earthquake, stand as a poignant reminder of Lisbon’s history.
- Principe Real: This charming square, known for its leafy trees and elegant atmosphere, is a great place to relax and enjoy a coffee or a meal.
- Miradouro de Santa Catarina: This terrace offers another stunning viewpoint over the city, with a café where you can enjoy a drink while admiring the scenery.
- Botanical Garden: Escape the hustle and bustle of the city in this enchanting botanical garden, home to a diverse collection of plants from around the world.
Conclusion
Camões Square is more than just a square; it’s a microcosm of Lisbon’s vibrant culture and history. Situated at the meeting point of the elegant Chiado district and the lively Bairro Alto, it offers a unique blend of sophistication and energy. For luxury travellers, Chiado boasts a selection of high-end hotels, Michelin-starred restaurants, and exclusive shopping experiences. Families will find plenty to enjoy as well, from riding the historic Tram 28 to exploring the Puppet Museum. The square’s historical significance, with its monument to Luís de Camões and the nearby Church of Santa Catarina, adds another layer of interest for those who appreciate culture and history.
For UK and US expats and travellers seeking an authentic Lisbon experience, Camões Square provides a perfect starting point. Its central location, diverse offerings, and captivating ambiance make it a must-visit destination that captures the essence of this charming city.
