From the Arch to Rossio, a journey through Pombaline rationality

One of the most important constructions in Portugal is the urban complex known as Baixa Pombalina. A ruler-and-square plan set out to rebuild the entire centre of Lisbon, which had been destroyed in the 1755 earthquake. The coherent and rational design of Manuel da Maio and Eugénio dos Santos is still admirable at all levels and is an example worldwide. Every detail was taken into account, from the installation on the ground - which was somewhat unstable and had unsafe foundations because it was set on marshy and watery soil - the prevention of structures in the event of future tremors, fire protection, the standardisation of construction solutions, modular construction, sanitation, de-budgeting, accessibility, functional rationalism, economy and durability of materials, are just a few examples that remain basic principles of architecture. However, this monument of humanity is threatened daily and has no real set of protection rules capable of guaranteeing its preservation for the future.

Duration
2h

Capacity
30

Extra Info
- Start location: Supreme Court of Justice
- End location: Rossio