Lisbon is a city of hidden stories, and one of its most popular, yet misunderstood, landmarks stands right on the old pier at Praça do Comércio. You’ve seen them, but did you know these seemingly simple columns hold a secret tied to the city’s greatest tragedy and a powerful global brotherhood? Join us as we uncover the fascinating history behind Lisbon’s Masonic Columns.
Rebuilding Lisbon: A City of Symbolism
The exact year these columns were erected is unknown, but they were conceived during the massive reconstruction of Lisbon following the devastating 1755 earthquake. The Marquis of Pombal, who led this monumental effort, was a Freemason, as were many of the era’s most progressive thinkers. As a result, subtle Masonic symbolism was deliberately embedded into the city’s new plan, including these columns.
Linking Lisbon and Jerusalem
These columns were a direct reference to the Columns that stood in the Temple of King Solomon in Jerusalem, which Masons consider symbolic of Wisdom and Loyalty. They also served as a symbolic gate to the “Holy City.” For Masons, the connection between Jerusalem and Lisbon was clear: both are built on seven hills. The Columns on the pier, therefore, were a way of symbolically linking these two ancient, sacred cities.
A Royal Entrance
The pier has long been used to welcome honored guests to the city. One of the most famous moments occurred in 1957 when Queen Elizabeth II entered Lisbon through the Columns, arriving by water. This event, captured on video, solidified the Columns’ modern-day role as a symbolic gateway for important visitors.
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