Praça 5 de Outubro (5th of October Square), Cascais

5th of October Square, located in the charming town of Cascais, Portugal, holds a rich history that reflects the transformation of this former fishing village into a cosmopolitan resort destination.

Cascais first gained recognition as a resort for Portugal's royal family during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Over time, the citadel of Cascais began to deteriorate until King Luiz I decided to embark on a restoration project. His vision was to turn Cascais into his summer residence, ultimately elevating the quiet fishing village into a vibrant and sophisticated address.

The square's name, 5th of October Square, commemorates the day of the revolution in 1910 when the last King of Portugal was overthrown, marking a significant turning point in the nation's history. This area is an integral part of downtown Cascais, characterized by its well-organized pedestrian zones.

At the heart of the square stands a monument dedicated to King Dom Pedro, known as "the Liberator." Dom Pedro played a pivotal role in history as the founder and first ruler of the Empire of Brazil. During the French invasion of Portugal in 1807, he and his family fled the country, marking a period of significant change. Another smaller monument in the square pays homage to King Luiz I, who passed away in Cascais in 1889. This monument was erected in 1989 to commemorate the centenary of his death.

The Town Hall, adorned with beautiful azulejos (traditional Portuguese ceramic tiles), features depictions of Catholic saints, adding to the square's character and charm. Additionally, there is an azulejos panorama that showcases the square's historical significance.

The iconic peleorinho column, found on public squares throughout Portugal, further adds to the square's cultural significance.