Praça Dom Pedro IV

Interesting facts

1. 1

   The 'calçada portuguesa' paving style seen here was first introduced in Lisbon at this square in 1842 by a military prisoner.

2. 2

   The two bronze fountains flanking the central monument were imported from France in the 1880s.

3. 3

   The square was the site of the Estaus Palace, the main center for the Portuguese Inquisition, for over 300 years.

4. 4

   King Dom Pedro IV, depicted on the central column, was the first Emperor of Brazil and King of Portugal.

5. 5

   The wave-like black and white pattern of the pavement is famously known as 'Mar Largo'.

Overview

Praça Dom Pedro IV, commonly known as Rossio Square, serves as the historic center of Lisbon. The square is defined by its iconic wave-patterned Portuguese cobblestone pavement, known as 'calçada portuguesa'. A 27-meter tall bronze statue of King Dom Pedro IV stands atop a marble column in the center. Two monumental baroque fountains from the 19th century anchor the north and south ends of the square. The site sits on the foundations of the 15th-century Estaus Palace, which served as the headquarters of the Portuguese Inquisition. It has functioned as a central public meeting point, site for bullfights, and venue for public executions for centuries. The square is framed by neoclassical pombaline architecture following the reconstruction of the city after the 1755 earthquake. It houses historic commercial venues, including the notable Cafe Nicola which has operated since the late 18th century.

Insider tips

• Walk the perimeter to view the distinct architectural facades that survived the city's various urban reconstructions.

• Visit the nearby specialized shops that have operated in the square's buildings for generations.

• Observe the pavement patterns closely; they represent the maritime history of Portugal.