Before the 1755 earthquake Largo do Terreiro was called Terreiro do Paço. It was Lisbon’s grand entrance for visitors arriving by sea. Kings and heads of state disembarked here. The Royal Palace stood on the western side. King Manuel moved the court there from São Jorge Castle in the 16th century.
Filipe I of Portugal commissioned a new square in 1580. Filippo Terzi and Juan Herrera designed it. Herrera also designed the Escorial. The earthquake destroyed everything.
The square was rebuilt. It became Praça do Comércio. This reflected a new social order. The minister to King José I favored the merchant and financial classes. They had helped rebuild Lisbon.
In the center stands a statue of José I. He’s on his horse Gentil. Sculptor Machado de Castro created it. It was unveiled in 1775. The king watched from a Customs building window. The celebrations lasted three days. There was a huge banquet for everyone.
Near the river is a likeness of Pombal. It was removed when he fell from favor. Liberals put it back in 1834. Sculptures represent Triumph and Fame. They allude to Portugal’s overseas possessions. A relief shows royal generosity to the ruined city. Commerce offers money.
Under the northern arcade is the Martinho da Arcada café-restaurant. It’s a Lisbon institution. The Triumphal Arch overlooks Rua Augusta. It leads to Rossio. Largo do Terreiro is one of Europe’s most beautiful squares. It’s a symbol of Lisbon’s resilience and grandeur. It holds centuries of history.