Historic Lisbon Store Faces Closure as New Hotel Plans Emerge

Iconic Lisbon Store at Risk of Closure

The historic Ginjinha Sem Rival, founded in 1890 and located on Rua das Portas de Santo Antão, is facing potential closure due to the sale of its building. The new owner intends to convert the property into a hotel, leaving the future of this beloved establishment uncertain.

Nuno Gonçalves, the manager of Ginjinha Sem Rival, expressed concerns to Correio da Manhã, stating, "This is an attack on stores with history and on culture." He highlights that two other ginjinha establishments, Ginjinha Espinheira and Ginjinha Rubi, are also struggling to stay open.

With the lease nearing its end and no protective laws for historic commerce, the situation is dire. However, the property owner has mentioned that the Lisbon City Council has promised assistance in this matter.