Summary:
Public urinals in Lisbon are now a rarity, with only three still operational.
These urinals were inspired by French designs and installed to improve city sanitation in the late 19th century.
The most famous urinal is near the Castle of SĂŁo Jorge, hidden from plain sight.
The Marvila urinal accommodates both genders, showcasing a blend of modernity and history.
The least known urinal is located in a secluded corner of Praça Viscondessa dos Olivais.
A Rare Sight in Lisbon
Once a common sight throughout the city, public urinals in Lisbon have become a rarity. However, three of these unique fixtures are still in operation, and we’re here to reveal their locations!
Photo by @vleandro
These public urinals were essential elements of the urban furniture in the late 19th century and were often found in bustling parts of the city. Today, despite their scarcity, three specimens have stood the test of time. Some of them are more “hidden” than others, and it’s likely that you’ve passed by them without even noticing!
A Historical Perspective
The design of Lisbon's public urinals was inspired by France, installed as part of the city’s efforts to improve sanitary conditions in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Other cities that adopted this idea include Paris, Amsterdam, Berlin, and some American towns. These ornately designed structures not only served hygienic purposes but also added a touch of artistic detail to the urban landscape.
Man by a public urinal in Lisbon. | © Arquivo Municipal de Lisboa, Paulo Guedes (1886-1947)
Over time, these facilities fell out of favor as more modern and hygienic options became available. The three remaining urinals are now considered historical relics, though their operation can sometimes be limited.
The Last Three Public Urinals
Let’s dive into where you can still spot and use these resilient urinals in different areas of the Portuguese capital:
The Most Famous
The most renowned urinal is also our favorite, tucked away near the entrance of the Castle of São Jorge, on Rua do Chão da Feira. It’s so discreet that unless you know it’s there, you might miss it entirely, identifiable only by a small iron plaque featuring a boy urinating, reminiscent of Brussels' Manneken Pis.
The Most Intact
For over 30 years, we’ve passed by Praça David Leandro da Silva, where the urinals of Marvila or Poço do Bispo still stand, blending antiquity with modernity. The smaller green urinal accommodates four male users, while the adjacent “kiosk” caters to all genders with a sturdier structure.
Urinal of Marvila or Poço do Bispo. | © Câmara Municipal de Lisboa
The Least Known
Before this exploration, we were completely unaware of this hidden gem located in Praça Viscondessa dos Olivais. It’s tucked away in a secluded corner, just as such facilities should be!
Urinal in Praça Viscondessa dos Olivais. | © Rui Elias
These public infrastructures, while seemingly mundane, hold a unique charm and are an integral part of Lisbon's history, reminding us of the city’s rich past amidst the modern landscape.
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