Dom Pedro IV Square

Category: Culture and Entertainment > Tourist Attraction

District: Lisboa > Lisboa > Lisboa > Santa Maria Maior

Location

The Praça Dom Pedro IV, universally known as Rossio, occupies a central position in the Baixa of Lisbon, in the parish of Santa Maria Maior. It is one of the city's nerve centers, standing out as a fundamental meeting point and transit axis, easily identifiable within the Lisbon urban fabric.

Past and Transformation

Rossio has a history dating back to Roman times, when it is believed an hippodrome existed on this site. Throughout the Middle Ages, this area, then known as Valverde, served as a vast space for fairs and markets. However, it was the earthquake of 1755 that redesigned the square. Its reconstruction gave it the rectangular shape and identity observed today, with Pombaline-style buildings flanking it, conferring a distinct and ordered character.

The Wavy Pavement and the Fountains

One of the most distinctive elements of the square is its Portuguese pavement, with wavy patterns in basalt and limestone. This mosaic was laid in the mid-19th century, being one of the first designs of this type to decorate the capital's public spaces, and it continues to be an aesthetic landmark. The beauty of the pavement is complemented by two monumental fountains, installed in the square during the same period of urban requalification, contributing to its scenic and refreshing atmosphere.

The Monument to D. Pedro IV

In the center of Rossio stands imposingly the statue of D. Pedro IV, who was King of Portugal and the first Emperor of independent Brazil. Inaugurated in 1870, the bronze work depicts the monarch in a general's uniform, covered by a royal mantle and with a laureated head. In his right hand, he holds the Constitutional Charter, a symbol of his legacy. At the base of the pedestal, female figures represent Justice, Prudence, Fortitude, and Moderation, qualities attributed to the "King-Soldier." Interestingly, there was an urban legend suggesting that the statue was originally conceived for another emperor; however, details such as the shields on the buttons and the collar of the Order of the Tower and Sword, along with documents found during restorations, unequivocally confirm that the figure depicted is D. Pedro IV.

A Stage for Events and Memories

Throughout the centuries, Praça Dom Pedro IV has been a witness and a stage for a myriad of events. From medieval fairs and markets to festivals and parades, this space has experienced crucial moments in Portuguese history. It was also a meeting point for literary and intellectual figures in establishments that existed in the square in the 19th century, reflecting its role as a social and cultural center of the city.

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