About this place
Monumento a Camões in Lisbon is the bronze monument to the poet Luís de Camões, standing in the middle of Largo de Camões where the Chiado and Bairro Alto districts meet. It is the city's oldest tribute to the author of "The Lusiads", Portugal's national epic.
What is the monument and who made it?
The sculptor Vítor Bastos (António Víctor de Figueiredo Bastos, 1830-1894) completed the statue in 1867. The foundation stone was laid in 1862 in the presence of King Luís I, so the project took roughly five years. The bronze figure weighs about 9,700 kg and the whole monument, pedestal included, rises 11.49 m. Figures of other Portuguese writers and chroniclers surround the base, turning the monument into a small gallery of national literature.
Who was Camões?
Luís de Camões is regarded as the greatest poet in the Portuguese language. His epic "Os Lusíadas" celebrates Portugal's voyages and discoveries, and the anniversary of his death, 10 June, is Portugal's national day.
What is there to see around it?
The square is a traditional meeting point in Chiado and a stage for cultural events and spontaneous gatherings. Nearby you will find cafés, bookshops and the shops of Rua Garrett, plus the steep lanes of Bairro Alto. It makes a natural start or finish for a walk through the district.
How do you get there?
The nearest metro station is Baixa-Chiado (blue and green lines). From central Baixa it is an uphill walk; from Bairro Alto it is a few hundred metres downhill. Coordinates: 38.7106 N, 9.1435 W. Access is free and the square is open around the clock.
When should you visit?
The monument can be seen all year. Mornings are quietest, while in the evening the nearby bars bring the square to life. Around 10 June, events honouring the poet take place.
Frequently asked questions
Is there an entrance fee? No. The monument stands in an open square and is free to view at any time.
When was it built? It was completed in 1867, with the foundation stone laid in 1862.
How long do I need? Ten to fifteen minutes for the statue itself, longer if you combine it with a stroll through Chiado.
What is the best metro stop? Baixa-Chiado, then walk to Largo de Camões.
Who stands around the pedestal? Other Portuguese writers and chroniclers, keeping the poet company.
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