Praca do Rossio (Rossio Square), Lisbon

The King Pedro IV Square, commonly known as Rossio, is a historic square in Lisbon’s Pombaline Downtown. Dating back to the Middle Ages, it has been a central site for public life, hosting events, from celebrations and revolts to bullfights and executions. The square’s centerpiece, the Column of Pedro IV, honors the Portuguese king for whom it is named.

Rossio became prominent in the 13th and 14th centuries as Lisbon expanded. Its colloquial name derives from the Portuguese term for "commons," reflecting its origins as communal land. In the 15th century, the Palace of Estaus was built on its northern side to house visiting dignitaries. Later, it became the headquarters of the Inquisition, and the square hosted public executions, including the first ritual of public penance, known as the “act of faith,” in 1540. On its eastern side, the All Saints Royal Hospital was constructed in 1504 but was destroyed in the 1755 earthquake, which devastated most of Lisbon. The earthquake spared only the Palace of Independence near the northeast corner, where Portuguese noblemen plotted against Spanish rule in 1640.

The post-earthquake reconstruction of Rossio defined its Pombaline architectural style. The Bandeira Arch, on the south side, connects Rossio to nearby streets like Rua Augusta and Commerce Square. The 19th century brought further transformation, with the Queen Maria II National Theatre replacing the infamous Inquisition Palace demolished in 1836. Designed in a neoclassical style, the theater features a statue of playwright Gil Vicente, a figure once censored by the Inquisition.

In the 19th century, Rossio gained its famous Portuguese wavelike mosaic pavement and two baroque bronze fountains situated at its southern and northern perimeters. The Rossio Train Station, built in 1887 with a neo-Manueline façade and striking horseshoe entry arches, added a grand feature to the northwest side. Cafés like Café Nicola and shops such as Ginjinha (selling the local sweet cherry liqueur) have made the square a popular social hub, attracting both locals and tourists.

Other noteworthy attractions nearby include the historic Santo Domingo Square, featuring a church, a memorial commemorating the Jewish victims of the 1506 massacre, and the neighboring Fig Tree Square. To the left of the theater, you'll find the Hotel Avenida Palace and Carmo Street, among other prominent landmarks. Finally, just behind the theater, the Gates of Santo Antão Street awaits, renowned as a famous "food street" replete with numerous cafes and restaurants.