Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, it's a city that breathes history and culture on every corner. One of the most emblematic areas is Avenida da Liberdade and its adjacent streets, which are not only known for their grandiose architecture, but also for the incredible statues that adorn the scenery. Let's explore the 22 statues that enrich this unique part of Lisbon.
1. Marquis of Pombal
At the top of Avenida da Liberdade, stands an imposing statue of the Marquis of Pombal. This 18th-century statesman was instrumental in the reconstruction of Lisbon after the 1755 earthquake.
2. Camilo Castelo Branco
A prominent figure in Portuguese literature, Camilo Castelo Branco is immortalised in a statue that captures his literary presence in Praça da Alegria.
3. Alexandre Herculano
Another literary giant, the statue of Alexandre Herculano pays tribute to the historian and writer in the Restorers Square.
4. Almeida Garrett
In Praça do Campo Pequeno, the statue of Almeida Garrett celebrates the illustrious playwright and poet who played a key role in Portuguese romanticism.
5. António Feliciano de Castilho
Located in the Jardins do Torel, the bust of Castilho honours the outstanding poet and literary critic of the 19th century.
6. Oliveira Martins
The statue of Oliveira Martins, located in the Jardins do Torel, pays tribute to the historian and politician who left an indelible mark on Portuguese culture.
7. Rosa Araújo
Another illustrious member of the literary world, Rosa Araújo is honoured with a statue in the Gardens of Torel, highlighting her pioneering role as a writer.
8. Sou como tu!
A statue that represents inclusion and diversity, "I'm like you!" Is an artistic expression that celebrates equality in society, located in Praça da Figueira.
9. Busto de Jean Monnet
On Avenida da Liberdade, a bust of Jean Monnet, one of the key figures in the formation of the European Union, highlights the historical importance of this personality.
10. Fryderyck Chopin
The Polish composer Fryderyck Chopin is honoured with a statue that emanates harmony and musicality in the Torel Gardens.
11. Monument to the Dead of the Great War
Located in Eduardo VII Park, this monument pays tribute to the Portuguese soldiers who lost their lives in World War I.
12. General O'Higgins
In Praça Marquês de Pombal, statues of Latin American leaders, General O'Higgins and Simon Bolivar, celebrate the solidarity between Portugal and the countries of Latin America.
13. Simon Bolivar
In Praça Marquês de Pombal, statues of Latin American leaders, General O'Higgins and Simon Bolivar, celebrate the solidarity between Portugal and the countries of Latin America.
14. Allegory to the Douro River
Located in Rossio Square, these allegories symbolise the two great rivers of Portugal, the Douro and the Tagus, personifying the country's natural wealth.
15. Allegory to the Tagus River
Located in Rossio Square, these allegories symbolise the two great rivers of Portugal, the Douro and the Tagus, personifying the country's natural wealth.
16. José Martí
In Martim Moniz Square, the statue of José Martí pays tribute to the Cuban poet, essayist and national hero.
17. Alfredo Keil
The composer and painter Alfredo Keil is remembered with a statue in Jardim Keil do Amaral, where his contribution to the arts is eternalised.
18. Viana da Mota
At the Clock Roundabout, the statue of Viana da Mota honours the Portuguese composer and pianist who played a crucial role in classical music.
19. Pinheiro Chagas
In the Jardins do Torel, the bust of Pinheiro Chagas highlights the writer and poet who contributed significantly to the Portuguese literature of the nineteenth century.
20. Ouranos II
In the Empire Square, the statue of Ouranos II represents Greek mythology, adding a mythical dimension to the Lisbon setting.
21. Adolfo Simões Muller
The statue in honour of Adolfo Simões Muller, located in Eduardo VII Park, celebrates the Portuguese painter known for his landscapes and maritime works.
22. João dos Santos
Psychiatrist and professor João dos Santos is honoured in the Torel Gardens, highlighting his pioneering work in the area of mental health in Portugal.
These 22 statues not only adorn the streets of Lisbon, but also tell the rich history of Portugal, honouring literary, political and cultural figures who have shaped the nation over the centuries. By walking through Avenida da Liberdade and its surroundings, visitors have the opportunity to explore a true outdoor gallery, where art and history intertwine harmoniously.
New in Lisbon: Project "History with Voice" in the Parish of Santo António!
History lovers and curious, get ready for a unique experience! The Parish of Santo António launched the incredible project "History with Voice" in the heart of Lisbon. Now, the statues along Avenida da Liberdade and neighbouring streets have come to life to tell, in first person, fascinating episodes about iconic figures such as the Marquis of Pombal, Alexandre Herculano, or Camilo Castelo Branco.
How does it work??
Next to each statue, you will find a QR code reader. Just point your mobile phone, scan the code, and let yourself be involved in the magic of interactive calls. Historical personalities, in direct speech, will share intriguing details of their lives and deeds.
Illustrious Voices
And to make the experience even more special, the calls have voices of renowned national artists, such as Herman José, Júlio Isidro, David Fonseca, Marina Mota, Fernando Mendes, António Raminhos, Fernando Rocha, Carlos Cunha, Ricardo Carriço, Nilton, among others. In addition, the audio in English, generated by artificial intelligence, allows the story to be enjoyed by international visitors.
Fun and Learning
More than a simple visit, "History with Voice" combines fun and learning in an innovative way. Listen to the stories directly from the mouths of historical personalities, immersing yourself in the events that shaped Lisbon and Portugal.
English Audio and Transcripts:
To ensure that everyone can enjoy this experience, calls are available in Portuguese and include audio in English, generated by artificial intelligence. In addition, all conversations have transcripts available for a complete understanding.
Don't miss this unique opportunity to connect with the history of Lisbon in a captivating and interactive way! Take your mobile phone, explore the statues and let yourself be carried away by a charming dive into the past.
Comments