Praca do Imperio (Empire Square), Lisbon

Comprised of formal walkways and gardens, Empire Square occupies the space that was once Belém's beachfront. It enjoys significant popularity, particularly on Saturday mornings, when the Monastery of Santa Maria de Belém often hosts weddings, with photo sessions extending into the square. Otherwise, a good spot to relax by the fountain and let the breeze provide a refreshing shower.

The rectangular square spans 175x175 meters (574x574 ft) and is divided into interconnected quadrangles, creating passages and green areas. These converging pathways lead to a centrally placed illuminated fountain on a square platform, covering an expanse of 3,300 square meters (36,000 square feet). Along the southern perimeter of the square, near Avenida da Índia, you'll find hippocamp statues (seahorses) overlooking reflective pools.

Situated on the eastern edge of the park, the Overseas Palace ("Palácio do Ultramar") dates back to the 1950s. In 1973, the municipal council of Lisbon added a commemorative monument to the poet Augusto Gil (1873-1929), featuring a bronze medallion and inscription.

Beyond the central fountain, you'll discover coats of arms associated with or attributed to explorers from the Age of Discovery. The gardens showcase 30 floral coats of arms representing 18 Portuguese districts, archipelagos, and former colonies, each adorned with the crosses of Christ and Avis. Additionally, a national emblem crafted from boxwood and flowers can be found.

Tip:
The 17th-century buildings lining Rua Vieira Portuense have been converted into restaurants, most of which offer outdoor seating. Generally, as you head further east along this street, you'll find better dining value.