Jardins do Carmo - Guimarães, Portugal
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Largo do Carmo

4.6
·82 reviews·Guimarães, Portugal

A historic square in Lisbon and São Luís, famed for revolutionary history and evocative ruins.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Jardins do Carmo - Guimarães, Portugal

Largo do Carmo

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic square in Lisbon and São Luís, famed for revolutionary history and evocative ruins.

4.6
(82 reviews)

"Largo do Carmo: where history whispers through ruins and echoes with the spirit of freedom."

Vertical photo
TIP

Wear comfy shoes

Cobblestone streets are charming but can be uneven. Explore comfortably! :athletic_shoe:

Visit Carmo Convent

Don't miss the evocative ruins of Carmo Convent, a must-see in Lisbon's Largo do Carmo. :church:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Carmo Convent Ruins

Carmo Convent Ruins

Lisbon

Hauntingly beautiful Gothic convent ruins, a stark reminder of the 1755 earthquake.

Statue of João Lisboa

Statue of João Lisboa

São Luís, Maranhão

A significant bronze monument honoring the esteemed patron of the Academia Maranhense de Letras.

25 de Abril Commemorations

25 de Abril Commemorations

Lisbon

Experience the powerful atmosphere of Liberation Day celebrations, often with music and gatherings.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit to Largo do Carmo

Largo do Carmo, especially in Lisbon, is a hub for historical significance and vibrant events. While it's a beautiful spot year-round, consider visiting during weekdays to avoid larger crowds, particularly if you're interested in its role in Portuguese history. The atmosphere can be particularly poignant around April 25th, Liberation Day.

Navigating Largo do Carmo

Largo do Carmo is accessible and walkable, often a pleasant stop between other attractions. In Lisbon, it's near the Santa Justa Lift and the Carmo Convent ruins. If visiting the São Luís version in Maranhão, Brazil, it's a historic city center landmark. Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the cobblestone streets.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
April 25th
Why
Experience Liberation Day
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

A Praça João Lisboa ou Largo do Carmo é um dos mais antigos logradouros da cidade de São Luís, no Maranhão.
maranhao_meutesouro
6K likes • 81.3K views

Wear comfy shoes

Cobblestone streets are charming but can be uneven. Explore comfortably! :athletic_shoe:

Visit Carmo Convent

Don't miss the evocative ruins of Carmo Convent, a must-see in Lisbon's Largo do Carmo. :church:

O Largo do Carmo foi palco de uma emocionante homenagem ao 25 de Abril. Centenas de jovens cantaram a emblemática "Grândola Vila Morena" à meia-noite. A canção, que marcou a Revolução dos Cravos, continua a ser um símbolo poderoso da luta pela liberdade. #25deabril #liberdade #largodocarmo
cnnportugal
28.1K likes • 972.9K views
No fim da manifestação do dia de luta anti-racista, no Largo do Carmo, Henriqueta, da Vida Justa, contou-nos sobre a sua experiência e o racismo que tem sofrido ao longo dos seus 23 anos. Enquanto as coisas não mudarem, sem justiça não há paz. #vidajusta #semjustiçanãohápaz
vidajusta.pt
48.1K likes • 630.4K views

Enjoy local treats

Grab a gelato from Häagen-Dazs on the esplanade in Lisbon's Largo do Carmo. :ice_cream:

Historical context

Understand its significance, especially its role in the 25 de Abril revolution. :book:

Nossa apaixonante ilha do Amor ♥️😍 . A Praça João Lisboa ou Largo do Carmo é um dos mais antigos endereços da cidade de São Luís, no Maranhão. Em 1918, foi inaugurado, um grande monumento de bronze com pedestal de mármore, feita pelo escultor francês Jean Magrou, em homenagem a João Lisboa. Nela estão as cinzas do ilustre patrono da cadeira nº 11 da Academia Maranhense de Letras. A praça está lig...
minhaslz
5.4K likes • 78.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Wear comfy shoes

Cobblestone streets are charming but can be uneven. Explore comfortably! :athletic_shoe:

Visit Carmo Convent

Don't miss the evocative ruins of Carmo Convent, a must-see in Lisbon's Largo do Carmo. :church:

Enjoy local treats

Grab a gelato from Häagen-Dazs on the esplanade in Lisbon's Largo do Carmo. :ice_cream:

Historical context

Understand its significance, especially its role in the 25 de Abril revolution. :book:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(82 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find Largo do Carmo to be a historically significant and visually appealing public space. In Lisbon, the Carmo Convent ruins are a major draw, offering a poignant glimpse into the past. The square itself is appreciated for its pleasant atmosphere and role in important national events. Some find the São Luís version to be a charming historic landmark.

"Quiet and pleasant park with trees and fountain"

pts pts

"Top"

Diogo Gonçalves

"Time of visit: first half of April 2025.
Descending from the Palace of the Duke of Braganza, we come across the square. On the right we see the house where the archaeologist from Guimaraes, Francisco Martins Sarmento, lived, after whom this square was named.
There is also a bust of him on the square.
Within the square there is a well-kept garden with a fountain in the center and several types of trees, where colorful camellias stand out in winter.
It was pleasant to rest for a while in this garden after visiting the Church of Our Lady of Carmel."

Зoран (Аћим)

What People Like

Historic Carmo Convent ruins
Symbol of Liberation Day
Pleasant urban atmosphere

What People Dislike

Can be crowded on event days

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Largo do Carmo in Lisbon is easily accessible. You can walk from Baixa or take Tram 28. It's also a short walk from the Santa Justa Lift, making it a convenient stop on your city exploration. Instagram

In São Luís, Maranhão, Largo do Carmo (Praça João Lisboa) is a central historic landmark. Public transport options will depend on the specific routes available in the city, but it's generally a well-known area. Instagram

Yes, in Lisbon, Largo do Carmo is within walking distance of many central attractions like Rossio Square and the Baixa district. It's part of a scenic route through the historic center. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Largo do Carmo itself is a public square and generally free to access. However, attractions within or adjacent to it, like the Carmo Convent ruins in Lisbon, may have admission fees. Instagram

As a public square, Largo do Carmo is typically open 24/7. However, any specific museums or attractions located on the square will have their own operating hours. Instagram

Yes, there is a modest entrance fee to visit the Carmo Convent ruins in Lisbon, which is highly recommended for its historical and architectural significance. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

In Lisbon, the Carmo Convent ruins offer dramatic and atmospheric shots. The square itself, with its trees and fountain, provides lovely urban scenery. Look for unique angles of the surrounding architecture. Instagram

Photography is generally allowed within the Carmo Convent ruins, allowing you to capture the haunting beauty of the site. Be mindful of any specific signage or restrictions. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there are several cafes and restaurants around Largo do Carmo in Lisbon. You can find options ranging from casual eateries to more established dining spots, including a Häagen-Dazs for a sweet treat. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Largo do Carmo in Lisbon can be a fascinating stop for families. The dramatic ruins of the Carmo Convent offer a visual history lesson that can spark children's imaginations about earthquakes and past eras. While the square itself is pleasant, keep an eye on younger children due to uneven cobblestones. Instagram

Consider a treat from the Häagen-Dazs on the square to make the visit more enjoyable for kids. In São Luís, the historic charm of Largo do Carmo can be a gentle introduction to Brazilian colonial history, with open spaces for children to observe. Instagram

🏛️ History Buffs

For history enthusiasts, Largo do Carmo is a must-visit. In Lisbon, the Carmo Convent ruins are a profound reminder of the 1755 earthquake and the subsequent rebuilding of the city. The square's role in the 1974 Carnation Revolution adds another layer of historical significance. Instagram+1

Researching the events of April 25th and the history of the convent before your visit will greatly enhance the experience. In São Luís, understanding the importance of João Lisboa and the colonial heritage of the square will provide valuable context. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Historical Significance of Largo do Carmo

Largo do Carmo holds immense historical weight, particularly in Lisbon, Portugal. It is famously known as the site where the Carnation Revolution began on April 25, 1974, leading to the end of the Estado Novo dictatorship. The square, with the iconic Carmo Convent ruins, serves as a powerful symbol of freedom and change. Instagram+1

Beyond its revolutionary past, the Carmo Convent itself is a testament to Lisbon's resilience. Destroyed in the devastating 1755 earthquake, its skeletal remains stand as a poignant reminder of the city's history and the destructive power of nature. Visitors can explore the ruins and imagine its former grandeur. Instagram

In São Luís, Brazil, Largo do Carmo (also known as Praça João Lisboa) is one of the city's oldest public spaces. It features a significant monument dedicated to João Lisboa, a prominent figure in the region's intellectual history. This Largo is an integral part of the historic colonial architecture. Instagram+1

Experiencing Largo do Carmo Today

Today, Largo do Carmo in Lisbon is a vibrant public space that blends history with modern life. It's a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, offering a place to relax, enjoy the views, and soak in the atmosphere. The presence of cafes and eateries, like the Häagen-Dazs, adds to its appeal as a leisure destination. Instagram

It continues to be a gathering place for significant events, most notably the annual commemorations of the 25 de Abril. On this day, the square often buzzes with activity, music, and patriotic sentiment, drawing large crowds eager to celebrate liberty. Instagram+1

In São Luís, the Largo do Carmo is a charming historic area characterized by its colonial architecture and a sense of timelessness. It's a place where you can appreciate the city's heritage, observe daily life, and perhaps enjoy a meal at one of the local restaurants. Instagram

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