South and Southeast River Station is located in Commerce Square, in Lisbon, where it is possible to catch the boats that make the connection to the south bank of the Tagus. Next to Navy Dock and Commerce Square, it is a point with history by the river.
Its strategic location in Commerce Square, one of Lisbon’s busiest areas, consolidated the station as a central point for river crossings between Lisbon and Barreiro. For decades, it served not only passengers but also freight, contributing to the region’s economic dynamism.
The South and Southeast Station was inaugurated on May 28, 1932, on the sixth anniversary of the military coup that ended the First Republic, and was intended to provide a river connection between Lisbon and Barreiro. Designed by Cottinelli Telmo (1897-1948), it has been classified as a Monument of Public Interest since 2012.
In 2021, the Portuguese government acquired 10 electric boats to gradually replace the older ones, making transport on the Tagus River more sustainable, with the integration of Soflusa into Transtejo.
The Station’s rehabilitation
However, and after about two decades without use, the rehabilitation of the Station began in 2019 under an exterior architecture project by Ana Costa, granddaughter of Cotinelli Telmo, and Bruno Soares, inside, seeking to preserve the fidelity of the original appearance. This renovated building opened on May 1st, 2021.
Its tile panels bearing the coats of arms of cities in the Alentejo and Algarve regions have been restored and illuminated with LED lighting.
However, the marble floor, the tiles, the art deco inspiration and the large clock were maintained; its filling being minimalist in style. Inside the station, it is possible to find the “Centro Tejo”, an interactive space that explores the river and its shared history between Lisbon residents and inhabitants of the south bank. This space invites the visitor to discover the Tagus along several thematic rooms, with an interactive model with water showing the effect of the tides and a space with holograms, dedicated to professions and activities related to the river.
The station also has a cafeteria with a terrace in the former first-class waiting room, where the tiles by painter Alves de Sá (1878-1972) have been restored.
Current significance
The South and Southeast River Station continues to play a crucial role in the mobility of the Lisbon Metropolitan Area. It is managed by Transtejo Soflusa, the company responsible for the daily crossings between the banks of the Tagus. Thousands of passengers use the facilities every day, taking advantage of the efficiency of river transport as a sustainable alternative to road transportation.
In addition, the station’s proximity to other points of interest, as already mentioned, makes it a strategic location for both residents and tourists looking to explore the city and the surrounding region. Discover here the latest awards received from this wonderful station.
In summary, the South and Southeast River Station is an important historical and cultural landmark in Lisbon, offering a variety of transport, leisure and entertainment options for visitors. With its imposing architecture, stunning views and cultural and leisure spaces, it is a must-visit for anyone visiting the city of Lisbon.
