Praça Do Carmo

Lisbon's Praça do Carmo is dominated by the striking ruins of the former Carmo Convent, built in the 14th and 15th centuries. The 1755 earthquake destroyed the complex, so today what you see is mainly the roofless church with its Gothic architecture. Inside, the ruins house the Archaeological Museum, while the nave is used for concerts in summer thanks to its special acoustics. Part of the restored convent serves as headquarters of the National Guard. The surrounding area was redesigned in 2016 by the architect Álvaro Siza, adding a viewing terrace and a passageway to adjoining streets. From the Rossio Square side, the distinctive ruins catch your eye right away.