Praça da Figueira
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Praça da Figueira

Literally meaning the Square of the Fig Tree the Praça da Figueira was one of the Marquês de Pombal's creations and replaced the city's main hospital which was destroyed during the great earthquake. Its original use was as a market but now is a major hub for trams and buses. In 1971 a large statue of a mounted King João I (1357-1433), by sculptor Leopoldo de Almeida was incorporated into the centre of the square which in turn was relocated into a corner during renovations in 1999.

About

Statue of King John I (Estátua de Dom João I)

Statue of King John I (Estátua de Dom João I)

Prior to the great earthquake the Real de Todos os Santos hospital stood where the square is now. Following the reconstruction of downtown Lisbon Praça da Figueira was home to one of the city's main outdoor markets. Towards the end of the 19th century, the market here had become a semi-permanent fixture with a covered area. It was only in 1949 that the market was torn down and replaced by the Praça da Figueira we see today.

A bronze statue of Dom João I sits upon his horse in the square. João reigned from 1357 to 1433 and was responsible for securing Portugal's independence from Spain. He made a lasting alliance with the English by marrying Philippa of Lancaster, daughter of John of Gaunt.

Confeitaria Nacional

One of Lisbon's classic cafés. Little seems to have changed at Confeitaria Nacional on the Praça da Figueira since it first opened in 1829. The stand-up counter is full of tempting cakes, pastries and sweets well worth breaking your diet for. There's a side room with seating and a few seats outside, ideal for watching the comings and goings in the Praça da Figueira. The distinct mirrored stucco ceiling adds a touch of timeless class to the establishment. Before the Portuguese republic, Confeitaria Nacional was frequented by the Portuguese royalty and well-to-do. The coffee here is as good as you would expect. Come for the experience if in the area.
Daily: 09h00 – 19h00, Sundays Oct–April: Closed

18 Praça da Figueira, 1100-241 Lisboa, Portugal.
38° 42' 47.5" N | 09° 08' 17.2" W
+351 213 424 470 | info@confeitarianacional.com |  Website

Dolls Hospital (Hospital de Bonecas)

Established in 1830 Lisbon's doll hospital is the worlds oldest and prevails in its original location inside a former human hospital on the Praça da Figueira. From here dolls of all kinds; plastic, porcelain, metal, wood and fabric, will receive will be rejuvenated. Some of the patients here are in a sad state before being lovingly restored. When the dolls are admitted they are tagged with the admission date along with their ailments. They recuperate in hospital beds whilst awaiting treatment. Against the walls cabinets full of little arms, legs, eyes, and wigs awaiting transplantation.

Visiting the dolls hospital is a fun experience for people of all ages. Inside the museum space, there's a fascinating collection of toys that will certainly make you feel nostalgic. The experience is a journey into trends and fashions as they have changed over various generations.
Monday – Saturday 10h30 - 12h30/15h30 - 17h00, Sunday: CLOSED Child & Grown-Ups: €2.00 each

Contact Details
Hospital de Bonecas, 7 Praça da Figueira, 1100-240 Lisbon, Portugal.
38° 42' 50.8" N | 09° 08' 17.4" W | +351 213 428 574
info@hospitaldebonecas.com |  Website
Pavilhão do Conhecimento

Dolls Hospital (Hospital de Bonecas)

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Getting to the Praça da Figueira

208, 714, 736, 737, 760, 774,
12E, 15E, 25E
Rossio(Sintra Line)
Rossio (Green Line)

Yellow Bus Tour