Pombaline Baixa Lisbon Map 1756 – A Rich Historical Document
Key Takeaways
- The Pombaline Baixa Lisbon Map 1756 is an invaluable resource for understanding the city’s layout during that time.
- This historical map showcases the earthquake-resistant urban reconstruction efforts led by Marquis of Pombal.
- It provides insights into the architectural design, street names, and important landmarks of Lisbon in the mid-18th century.
- Studying this map allows us to appreciate the historical significance of Lisbon’s city planning and development.
- By comparing this map with modern-day Lisbon, one can see the evolution and changes that have occurred over the centuries.
History
The Pombaline Baixa Lisbon Map 1756 is named after Marquis of Pombal, who was the Prime Minister of Portugal from
1750 to 1777. This map was commissioned as part of the city’s reconstruction efforts following the devastating
Lisbon earthquake of 1755.
The earthquake, estimated to have a magnitude of 8.5–9, struck on the morning of November 1, 1755. It caused
widespread destruction, with the Baixa district of Lisbon being one of the most affected areas. The disaster left
thousands dead, and the city was in ruins.
Under the leadership of Marquis of Pombal, ambitious reconstruction plans were set in motion. The Pombaline Baixa
Lisbon Map 1756 played a crucial role in visualizing and executing these plans. It showcased a new urban design
focusing on earthquake resistance, functionality, and modernity.
The map displayed a grid-like street layout, with wide straight roads intersecting at right angles. It was a
departure from the haphazard street patterns of the past. The buildings were constructed with sturdy materials and
designed with anti-seismic techniques to withstand future earthquakes.
Unique Insights
Studying the Pombaline Baixa Lisbon Map 1756 provides unique insights into the city’s historical development and
its urban planning during that period. Here are some notable highlights:
1. Architectural Design
The map showcases the architectural design of the reconstructed buildings in Baixa. The structures featured
uniformity in height and width, creating an orderly visual landscape. The use of wrought iron balconies and grand
entrances added elegance to the facades.
2. Street Names and Patterns
The map reveals the street names and patterns of the Pombaline Baixa district. The streets were primarily named
after professions, indicating the economic activities that took place in those areas. The grid-like street layout
facilitated easy navigation and efficient urban movement.
3. Presence of Key Landmarks
Several important landmarks are identified on the Pombaline Baixa Lisbon Map 1756. These include churches,
squares, and government buildings. The map helps us understand the central role these landmarks played in the lives
of the people and the overall layout of the city.
4. Expansion of Urban Areas
Comparing the Pombaline map with earlier maps and modern-day Lisbon allows us to observe the expansion of the
urban areas. The map shows how the city grew outwards, transforming over time to accommodate a growing population
and changing needs.
Table of Relevant Facts
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 1755 | Lisbon earthquake strikes, causing massive destruction. |
| 1756 | Pombaline Baixa Lisbon Map is commissioned for reconstruction purposes. |
| 1763 | Construction of Pombaline Baixa district completed. |
| 1770 | Opening of Rua Augusta, the main street of the Pombaline Baixa. |
FAQ
1. Why is the Pombaline Baixa Lisbon Map 1756 significant?
The map is significant because it visualizes the reconstruction efforts after the devastating Lisbon earthquake of
1755. It showcases the new urban design and provides insights into historical city planning.
2. Who commissioned the Pombaline Baixa Lisbon Map 1756?
The map was commissioned under the leadership of Marquis of Pombal, the Prime Minister of Portugal at that time.
3. What does the map reveal about the architectural design?
The map showcases the uniformity in height and width of the reconstructed buildings, as well as the use of wrought
iron balconies and grand entrances.
4. How did the Pombaline Baixa district differ from previous street patterns?
The Pombaline Baixa district introduced a grid-like street layout, which was a departure from the haphazard
patterns of the past.
5. What were the street names based on in the Pombaline Baixa district?
The streets in the Pombaline Baixa district were primarily named after professions, reflecting the economic
activities in those areas.
6. What are some key landmarks identified on the map?
The map identifies churches, squares, and government buildings as key landmarks in the Pombaline Baixa district.
7. How has the city of Lisbon changed since 1756?
Comparing the map with modern-day Lisbon reveals the growth and expansion of urban areas to accommodate the
evolving needs of the city’s population.
External Links
List of LSI Keywords
- Pombaline Baixa Lisbon
- 1756 Lisbon Map
- Lisbon earthquake
- Marquis of Pombal
- Urban reconstruction
- Historical city planning
- Architectural design in Baixa
- Street patterns in Lisbon
- Landmarks in the Pombaline district
- Growth of Lisbon
