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A little bit of history
The Arco da Rua Augusta in the city centre of Lisbon is a site that is hard to miss. The famous triumphal arch is located at Praça do Comércio, a beautiful square on the river Tagus. The historical building was built after the 1755 earthquake to commemorate Lisbon’s reconstruction.
Visit the famous arch
Many people walk by Rua Augusta Arch daily, but climbing to the top is worth it! You’ll enjoy an iconic 360º view over Lisbon and Praça do Comércio! The building opened to the public in 2013, and the entrance price is just €3 per adult. With the Lisboa Card, you can enter the building for free.
Some fun facts about Arco da Rua Augusta
The Rua Augusta Arch consists of six columns and is 11 meters tall. Arco da Rua Augusta was initially built as a bell tower, and inside you’ll spot clockworks and the bell. In the Clock Room, you’ll see an educational exhibition where you will learn more about the history of the arch.
The arch is richly decorated, and you’ll notice several statues of historical figures on the top. The French sculptor Célestin Anatole Calmels made the sculpture representing the Glory crowning Genius and Valor. Other sculptures are created by Victor Bastos and represent Marquis of Pombal, Nuno Álvares Pereira, Vasco da Gama and Viriato.
So don’t just walk past the arch; all in all, it’s well worth a visit! Afterwards, you can enjoy a drink at Praça do Comércio, walk along the river Tagus, or have a look in the shops around Rua Augusta. Other sites within reach are the Sé of Lisbon, the Santa Justa Elevator and the neighbourhood of Alfama.
How to get to Arco da Rua Augusta
You’ll find the arch at the end of Lisbon’s main pedestrian street, Rua Augusta. The buses and trams stop in front of the arch. If you come by metro, the closest station is Terreiro do Paço on the Blue Line.
If you have questions about Lisbon public transport, check out this post!
