Lápides das Pedras Negras Plaque;inscription

In the shadow of history, right here on Travessa do Almada, lie the Lápides das Pedras Negras. These four ancient stones whisper tales from Roman Olisipo, a time when Lisbon was a vibrant outpost of the Roman Empire. The Lápides das Pedras Negras were discovered during the construction of the “Prédio do Almada” building. Can you imagine the surprise of the workers, unearthing these remnants of a long-vanished civilization? These stones weren’t just decorative. They were once prominent markers, bearing inscriptions in Latin that tell us about the people who lived here centuries ago. Two of them are dedicated to the Roman gods, Mercury, the messenger of the gods and protector of travelers and merchants, and Cybele, the Great Mother goddess. The inscriptions mention names like Gaius Julius, Emperor Caesar Augustus, and even Felicitas Julia Olisipo, a woman who dedicated one of the stones. The very name “Lápides das Pedras Negras,” meaning “stones of the black stones,” is a reference to a nearby street, Rua das Pedras Negras. This hints at the area’s historical significance. These stones, along with other archaeological finds nearby, paint a picture of Roman Lisbon. It was a place of bustling trade, religious devotion, and everyday life, much like our own. The Lápides das Pedras Negras serve as a tangible link to this vibrant past. As you stand before them, let your imagination transport you back to Roman Olisipo. Feel the echoes of their footsteps and hear the whispers of their stories in the heart of modern Lisbon.