Catarina L.
Yelp
Unknown to many Lisboners and tourists alike is the fact that you can now visit the interior of this Arch. Do it! It's only 2,5€ or 1€ if you also buy a ticket for the Lisbon Story Center.
This beautiful and imposing Arch looks almost like a gateway into Lisbon. It has a lot of historical meaning to the city, given that this whole area was rebuilt after a severe earthquake that destroyed most of the capital in 1755.
You can marvel at it from the street, but going up there completely shifts your perspective. From the upper level you have panoramic views of the city. You can stand beside the grandiose statues and, like them, gaze at the busy streets below.
The tower clock and bell - both still working - are exposed there as well as a small history of the Arch, it's not a lot but then again, the ticket isn't expensive and you also don't need to queue to get in and out, so it's good value.
There's a lift up to the 2nd floor but from there you'll have to climb some narrow steps to get to the remaining two floors. They have a system in place, like traffic lights, that tell you if you can use the stairs, so that people going in opposite directions don't get in each others way.
If it's not raining, it's very much worth the visit. It'd be perfect if they included a small guided tour of any sort and more information about the architectural and artistic details.