History of João Lisboa Square in São Luís do Maranhão

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João Lisboa Square: A historical landmark in São Luís

João Lisboa Square was originally called Largo do Carmo, in reference to the Nossa Senhora de Monte Carmelo Convent and Church. This space is inextricably linked to important historical events in the city, such as the Battle between the Dutch and the Portuguese.

Historical importance

The square was the site of the city’s first market, the first public shelter and the pillory, which was destroyed after the proclamation of the Republic.

Historically, the square was the heart of São Luís, where intellectuals and politicians met to discuss city life, art, politics and literature. During this period, the square was also known as Praça da Liberdade.

Foto antiga da Praça João Lisboa em São Luís do Maranhão — Old photo of João Lisboa Square in São Luís do Maranhão

Bicentenary of João Francisco Lisboa

March 22nd 2012 marked the bicentenary of the journalist, lawyer and critic João Francisco Lisboa, a man ahead of his time. Not only did he report on the political and historical situation in Maranhão, but he did so with an approach that is still very relevant today in terms of journalism, historiography, politics, literary and linguistics.

João Lisboa Square was named after João Francisco Lisboa in recognition of his importance in the history of Maranhão. The name was made official by a municipal decree on 28 July 1901, highlighting the importance of his contribution to the city’s culture and politics.

Praça João Lisboa em São Luís do Maranhão

Gonçalves Dias Square

Gonçalves Dias Square (also known as Largo dos Amores) is a meeting place for lovers. Located in São Luís, in the former Largo do Carmo, flanked by Sol, Paz and Egito streets in the city centre, the square was named after the Maranhão journalist by municipal decree.

Praça João Lisboa em São Luís do Maranhão — João Lisboa Square in São Luís do Maranhão

Monument to João Lisboa

In João Lisboa Square there is a large bronze monument on a marble base, erected in 1918 by the French sculptor Jean Magrou in honour of João Lisboa.

The statue was first placed in Largo do Carmo and then moved to the present square. Beneath this monument are the ashes of the illustrious patron of chair no. 11 of the Maranhão Academy of Letters.

Monumento em bronze de João Lisboa na praça que leva seu nome — João Lisboa’s bronze monument in the square that bears his name

Life in the square

Historically, the square was the centre where intellectuals and politicians met to discuss the cultural and social life of the city. In those days it was also known as the Praça da Liberdade, and the trams ran through it.

Nowadays, because it is a very pleasant, tree-lined space with benches, the Praça João Lisboa still receives a large influx of people, influenced by the movement of the buildings around it, such as the Post and Telegraph offices.

Older men and pensioners often visit the square to read newspapers, play draughts, feed pigeons or just chat.

Bottom line

João Lisboa Square is not just a physical space, but a symbol of the rich history and culture of São Luís do Maranhão and Brazilian Northeast. It represents the confluence of ideas and community life, reflecting the identity of its people.

Written by Willy Sievert

Editor of Bahia.ws since its founding in 2009. Based in Salvador, he travels frequently across the Northeast and all of Brazil to keep the guides up to date. Learn more about Willy Sievert →

Published on 14/12/2021 · Updated on 14/05/2025