Chiado is a sophisticated and trendy neighborhood located in the heart of Lisbon. It is known for its abundance of cafes, restaurants, and bars, as well as its plethora of art galleries, theaters, museums, and viewpoints. It is also home to the iconic statue of the renowned Portuguese poet Fernando Pessoa, who was a frequent patron of the A Brasileira cafe, known for its delicious espresso. From Chiado, one can also enjoy breathtaking views of the city, such as those offered by the Elevador de Santa Justa or the Carmo Convent. At its core, Chiado is a commercial neighborhood, particularly along its Garrett and Carmo streets. It is widely regarded as Lisbon's most elegant neighborhood and is a popular destination for coffee, shopping, and pre-night out gatherings in the neighboring Bairro Alto. Many of the buildings in Chiado date back to the late 1700s, but several were restored and altered in the 1990s by Pritzker Prize-winning architect Álvaro Siza Vieira following a devastating fire in 1988.
Chiado is a neighborhood that transports visitors back in time to the late 19th and early 20th centuries, known as the "Belle Époque," when writers such as Fernando Pessoa and Eça de Queiroz used to frequent the now-historic cafes in the area. One of the most photographed buildings in Chiado is from 1863 and faces Largo Rafael Bordalo Pinheiro, a main square adorned with tiles illustrating mythological figures representing Earth, Water, Science, Agriculture, Commerce, and Industry. At the top of the building is the Eye of Providence, a symbol of divine providence and omniscience. In addition to its historical significance, Chiado is also home to classic theaters, bookshops (including the world's oldest), sophisticated restaurants with Michelin stars, and the stores of international brands, giving it a lively cosmopolitan ambiance at any time of the day. Rua Garrett is the main street, with the Aramazéns do Chiado mall at one end and the landmark
A Brasileira cafe at the other. In between is one of the city's most beautiful stores, a jewelry store from 1909 that seems to belong to a Louis XV palace and is now part of the "Tous" brand. It is also home to one of Europe's first (and most beautiful) elevators, which was installed in the Ramiro Leão department store (now a United Colors of Benetton) and can be seen on the fourth floor. The elevator is protected like a museum piece, with a well-preserved mirrored and gilded interior, and even features a velvet-upholstered stool used by ladies as they were whisked up to the store.
In summary, Chiado is a must-visit neighborhood for anyone visiting Lisbon. It offers a unique blend of history, culture, and modernity, making it a truly special and memorable destination.