The charismatic and modern Príncipe Real
An “alternative” neighborhood, with a lot of charisma and attitude. And also very stylish. A very unique style that has taken on as innovative concepts, fashion ateliers and concept stores have been established in this area with typical street spaces, but which are often concentrated in mansions with features and services characteristic of a commercial gallery. This is the case of EmbaiXada Portuguese Gallery Shopping, where a new generation of Portuguese entrepreneurs comes together with a differentiating offer and a strong focus on national production.
New developments happen in this area, but authenticity remains in these modern spaces installed in old buildings and revitalized palaces without giving up their origins. Príncipe Real has become cosmopolitan, although it continues to breathe a neighborhood atmosphere, harboring different urban cultures, age groups and socioeconomic strata.
Close to Bairro Alto, Príncipe Real is also the destination of choice for the opening of new restaurant concepts by renowned chefs, which combine with well-known and more conventional spaces that have been present in the neighborhood for several years.
A visit to Príncipe Real is not complete without a trip to the more traditional route, which includes historical and cultural spaces or gardens, which the area offers in abundance. In addition to the Príncipe Real Garden, which gives the neighborhood its charm and shape, it is worth exploring the magnificent Lisbon Botanical Garden, an authentic natural paradise with more than 140 years and which has been classified as a National Monument since 2010. Right next door, the National Museum of Natural History and Science is also worth a visit, as is the São Mamede Gallery, established here for over half a century. All on Rua da Escola Politécnica.
Do you know that…
The Príncipe Real Garden was built in the second half of the 19th century in the former Patriarchal of Lisbon, then in ruins, by order of Queen Maria II (daughter of Emperor D. Pedro I of Brazil) in honor of her eldest son D. Pedro V, holder of the title of Príncipe Real. Despite having reigned for a very short time, as he died very young, D. Pedro V was considered by many to be an exemplary monarch, having therefore received the nicknames of “the Hopeful” and “the Much Beloved”.
