Arco da Rua Augusta

The Arco da Rua Augusta is a historical arch in the capital city of Lisbon, Portugal. It is located in the Praça do Comércio plaza and marks the beginning of one of the city's most iconic promenades: the Rua Augusta. This monument is considered the main gateway to the city and has a great symbolic value to the Portuguese people.

The Arco, as it is locally referred to, was completed in 1875 and was intended to commemorate the reconstruction of Lisbon after the damaging earthquake, tsunami and fire of 1755. An inscription on the side of the arch reads “ in the Year MDCCLXXV, on the first of November, opened to the People the Free Passage through this Gate.” The Arco has four stories that look out over the Praça do Comércio: two of Baroque inspiration, one Neoclassic designed by architect Santos de Carvalho and one Moorish. At the top of the arch are statues of its benefactors, D. Jose I and D. Maria I. It is a must-see for any traveler visiting Lisbon and the Praça do Comércio. It makes for a great place to rest and take in the hustle and bustle of the plaza and the surrounding area.