Lisbon Firefighters to Sound Sirens Citywide in Tribute to 1755 Earthquake

Lisbon Firefighters Sounding Sirens for Historical Remembrance

On November 1st, the sirens from the 11 fire stations of the Lisbon Sapadores Bombeiros will ring out simultaneously at 09:40 AM, marking the approximate time of the devastating 1755 earthquake. This initiative, organized by QUAKE – Lisbon Earthquake Museum, aims to raise awareness about this tragic event that reshaped Lisbon in the 18th century.

In addition to the sirens, the horns of Transtejo Soflusa ships will join in this solemn tribute. The event is supported by the Secretary of State for Civil Protection, the President of the Assembly of the Republic, and the Lisbon City Council. It encourages reflection on the importance of disaster preparedness for future earthquakes.

Co-founder of QUAKE, Ricardo Clemente, emphasizes the significance of this date: "Ignoring November 1, 1755 is forgetting who we are and where we come from. This date should be remembered as one of the most significant in the lives of the Portuguese." He further notes that it’s not about fostering a culture of disaster, but learning from the past to face the future effectively.

Additionally, QUAKE invites the public to hang a purple flag or piece of clothing in their windows, symbolizing both mourning and hope, as part of the initiative called “Remembering 1755”.

From the evening of October 31st until the end of November 1st, several landmarks, including the Lisbon City Hall, the Commerce Square statue, and Christ the King in Almada, will be illuminated in purple as a poignant reminder of this historical event.

Image credit: DR/Transtejo - Terreiro do Paço