1755 Earthquake Lisbon: Destruction & Rebirth

Tour stops

1. 1. Baixa Pombalina

   Welcome to Baixa! 🤩 This grid layout is all thanks to the earthquake. It was built to replace the destroyed medieval city. Marquis of Pombal designed it to be earthquake-resistant.

2. 2. Rossio Square (Rossio)

   This bustling square was ground zero. 💥 Imagine the chaos of the 1755 Earthquake here. It was a central meeting point, and the earthquake hit during a religious holiday. Many sought refuge here, only to be met by the tsunami.

3. 3. Lisbon Story Guesthouse

   This guesthouse sits on land deeply affected by the quake. 🏠 Many buildings in this area were completely destroyed. Imagine trying to rebuild your life here after the devastation. The guesthouse itself is a testament to Lisbon's modern recovery.

4. 4. Museu Arqueológico do Carmo

   These skeletal ruins tell a powerful story. 💔 The Carmo Convent was largely destroyed by the earthquake and never fully rebuilt. It stands as a stark reminder of the earthquake's destructive power. Now it's an open-air museum, a powerful symbol.

5. 5. Rua Augusta

   This grand street is a symbol of Lisbon's rebirth. 🚶‍♀️ Rua Augusta was built after the earthquake, as part of Pombal's plan. It's a pedestrian street connecting Rossio Square to Commerce Square. Imagine walking here in the late 1700s, witnessing a brand new Lisbon.

6. 6. Praça do Comércio

   This majestic square was once the royal palace. 👑 It was completely destroyed during the 1755 Earthquake and tsunami. Pombal rebuilt it as a symbol of commerce and power. Now, it's a stunning open space with views of the Tagus River.

7. 7. National Museum of the Azulejo (Museu Nacional do Azulejo)

   While not directly destroyed, the azulejos played a role after the earthquake. 🎨 Azulejos, or tiles, became even more popular in the reconstruction. They were durable, decorative, and relatively inexpensive. The museum showcases the history and artistry of these iconic tiles.

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