Rua Augusta Arch is a majestical and noble gateway onto the interior of Lisbon Downtown. It gives access from downtown to a wide-open square, in which is organized several key events during the year. Nearby, the city hall, the stage of several celebrations during the year.
The square called Praça do Comércio has a statue in the middle and it is surrounded by buildings with arches in the facade. You will find several coffee shops, restaurants, museums, Portugal wine tasting room, and government offices.
Rua Augusta Arch was planned in time of Marquis de Pombal to end the building process of the north side of Praça do Comércio. 11 years to be constructed since it began in 1862 and ends in 1873 according to the historical descriptions.
The monument which is possible to visit and go to the top has several allegoric symbols. You will find mentions of the French sculptor Anatole Calmels with the mention of “Gloria crowning Genius and Value”. You will find also representations of the Tagus and Douro rivers on both sides. Personalities such as Vasco da Gama, Viriato Marquis of Pombal and Nuno Alvares Pereira have their statues on the arch.
You will find also some Latin inscriptions, such as “virtvtibs maiorvm” or greatest virtues. In fact, the concept behind it the homage to the Portuguese along centuries such as Vasco da Gama and the values of Portuguese patriotism.
The location near the Tagus River is suitable since is near the departures during the age of discoveries. The impact was huge and more than five centuries later is reminded as establishing trade routes in different Continents.
The Rua Augusta Arch is sometimes the meeting point for locals. Sometimes people arrange an encounter with friends and people will ask. Well, since you came from the boat (nearby there is the catamaran connection with the south margin of Tagus River), we meet under the arch. It works for everyone even travelers if they got lost especially small groups or families.
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One of the highlights of a visit the Saint George Castle is the opportunity to walk along the ramparts and enjoy the breathtaking views over Lisbon.
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