Exploring Lisbon’s Underground Roman Galleries

A Hidden Layer Beneath the City

Beneath Lisbon’s historic centre lies a lesser-known chapter of the city’s past—the Underground Roman Galleries. Also called the Roman Cryptoporticus, these ancient tunnels date back to the 1st century AD. Hidden below Rua da Prata, they reveal the impressive engineering of Olissipo, the Roman settlement that predated modern Lisbon. For curious travellers, this archaeological site offers a rare glimpse into the infrastructure that supported the Roman Empire in what is now Portugal’s capital.

A Glimpse into Roman Olissipo

The galleries were likely constructed during the reign of Emperor Augustus, serving as foundations for important public buildings near the Tagus River. The location—on sandy, unstable soil near what would have been a bustling Roman city centre—called for an underground support system. This hidden structure helped stabilise key monuments such as temples, markets, or possibly a forum.

As the centuries passed, new buildings rose on the same site, using the Roman foundations as a base. After the 1755 earthquake devastated downtown Lisbon, the galleries were rediscovered during reconstruction. Remarkably, they had survived the disaster, and buildings constructed above them benefited from their solid structure.

Where and When to Visit

Today, visitors can enter the galleries through a discreet opening on Rua da Conceição, near Rua da Prata. The entrance is modest—essentially a manhole in the street—yet it leads to a network of tunnels nearly 2,000 years old.

Public access is limited. Tours are offered only a few days per year, usually in April and September. Tickets cost €3 (free for children under 12) and are highly sought after. They must be booked in advance via the Blueticket platform. Guided tours last around 30 minutes and are conducted in Portuguese. Even if you don’t speak the language, the experience of walking through the site makes it worthwhile.

What to Expect Inside

The tour takes visitors through a series of vaulted corridors and small chambers, some barely tall enough to stand in. Conditions are damp and humid, with uneven floors and occasional puddles. Lighting is minimal, so wearing waterproof shoes and comfortable clothing is advised. The structure consists of six main galleries and several narrow passageways.

Though it may feel more like an ancient drainage system than an ornate ruin, standing inside these tunnels offers a direct connection to the foundations of Lisbon’s Roman past. One chamber, known as the Gallery of the Springs, is partially submerged due to groundwater that still flows through the site. Before each opening, the city pumps out water to make the site accessible.

Preservation and Future Plans

Preserving the galleries has proven challenging due to constant flooding. Nevertheless, city officials have explored ways to expand access. Plans have been announced to create a year-round interpretive centre with a new entrance on Rua da Prata. Although the timeline remains uncertain, a digital solution is already underway. A 3D laser scanning project has mapped much of the site, allowing future visitors to explore the galleries virtually.

How to Prepare for Your Visit

• Best Time to Visit: April or September during the limited opening dates.
• Tickets: Purchase online in advance through Blueticket.
• Meeting Point: Arrive 15 minutes early at the corner of Rua da Conceição and Rua dos Correeiros.
• What to Wear: Waterproof shoes, casual clothes, and a jacket.
• Tour Language: Tours are currently only offered in Portuguese.

Nearby Attractions

If you’re exploring the Baixa district, several other landmarks are nearby:

• Lisbon Roman Theatre Museum: Another window into the city’s Roman heritage.
• Rua Augusta Arch: Offers views over the city from its rooftop terrace.
• Lisbon Cathedral (Sé de Lisboa): A blend of Romanesque and Gothic architecture.

Why Visit the Roman Galleries?

For travellers seeking something beyond the usual monuments and museums, the Roman Galleries offer a unique and immersive experience. Walking through these preserved tunnels adds depth to any Lisbon itinerary, connecting the modern city to its ancient foundations. At Exoticca, we aim to include enriching experiences like this in our Portugal tours, providing travellers with a chance to uncover the layers of history that make Lisbon one of Europe’s most fascinating destinations.