Escola Básica e Secundária Dona Filipa de Lencastre

Established by decree in 1928, the Escola Básica e Secundária Dona Filipa de Lencastre stands as a testament to a rich history. Originally named Liceu Nacional D. Filipa de Lencastre, it was Lisbon’s fourth girls’ school and the second in the capital. The school’s namesake, Queen Philippa of Lancaster, wife of King John I, played a pivotal role in Portuguese history. The Escola Básica e Secundária Dona Filipa de Lencastre first opened its doors in the Corte-Real Palace on Rua do Quelhas. It later moved to Rua de S. Bernardo before finally settling in its current location in the Arco do Cego district. This building, designed by architect Jorge Segurado, was initially intended for primary education. It underwent significant renovations to accommodate the growing needs of the Liceu. The official inauguration took place in November 1938. Even before the renovations were complete, the Escola Básica e Secundária Dona Filipa de Lencastre began cultivating its museum collections. This led to the establishment of the Colonial Museum and the Ethnographic Museum, reflecting the Estado Novo era’s focus on colonial propaganda. These collections expanded to include diverse subjects like malacology, mineralogy, and taxidermy. The school also amassed impressive scientific equipment and a notable library, which continues to grow. Two significant donations enriched the library’s holdings: one from essayist Maria Joaquina Nobre Júlio, featuring works on Vergílio Ferreira, and another from writer Fernando Campos. The Escola Básica e Secundária Dona Filipa de Lencastre became co-educational in 1974, marking a significant shift in its history. It fostered an alumni network of prominent figures, including Alice Vieira, Carmen Dolores, and Maria de Lourdes Pintasilgo, among others. The school’s building, now a classified Monument of Public Interest, has witnessed its share of controversy. From debates surrounding its first director to recent investigations into student enrollment practices and teacher conduct, the Escola Básica e Secundária Dona Filipa de Lencastre has consistently made headlines. Yet, it perseveres. In 2016, it was ranked among the best secondary schools in Portugal. The Escola Básica e Secundária Dona Filipa de Lencastre stands not just as a place of learning, but as a living chronicle of Lisbon’s educational and cultural landscape.