Duke of Tercera

Category: Culture and Entertainment > Artwork

District: Lisboa > Lisboa > Lisboa > Cais do Sodré

Location

The monument to the Duke of Terceira is located in the vibrant Cais do Sodré district of Lisbon. Its location is strategic, marking the beginning of Avenida 24 de Julho. This square, once known as Praça dos Remolares, is a key meeting and transit point on the city's waterfront, offering a direct view of the Tagus River and maritime activity.

The Honored Figure

The monument pays tribute to António José de Sousa Manuel de Menezes Severim de Noronha, the first Duke of Terceira. Born in Lisbon in 1793, he was a central figure during one of the most turbulent periods in Portuguese history: the Liberal Wars, which pitted liberals against absolutists. As a military man of great merit, the Duke of Terceira led the liberal forces, distinguishing himself for his bravery and strategy.

It was his leadership that culminated in the triumphant entry of the liberal troops into Lisbon on July 24, 1833, a decisive event that marked the end of the civil war and the victory of the liberal cause. This historic achievement sealed Portugal's destiny, consolidating the constitutional regime. The Duke of Terceira also had a notable political career, serving several times as President of the Council of Ministers.

A Symbol of Freedom

Erected in 1877, the monument is a work by sculptor Simões de Almeida. The statue depicts the Duke of Terceira in an imposing pose, facing the river, symbolizing his victorious arrival in the capital. More than a mere representation, the monument is a lasting symbol of the conquest of freedom and the affirmation of liberalism in Portugal.

Its presence in Cais do Sodré is a physical reminder of a crucial moment that shaped the country's political and social identity. The square where it stands, with its view of the water, evokes the maritime journey that the Duke and his troops made to liberate the city, transforming it into a point of reflection on the nation's resilience and determination.

Legacy and Recognition

The importance of the Duke of Terceira in the history of Portugal is undeniable, being recognized as one of the great national heroes of the Liberal Wars. His distinction was such that he was granted the exceptional honor of being buried in the National Pantheon in Lisbon, a place reserved for the most illustrious figures in Portuguese history. This monument in Cais do Sodré complements this tribute, allowing visitors to Lisbon direct contact with the memory of a leader who played a decisive role in the construction of modern Portugal.

License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt