Sul e Sueste River Station

A historical and cultural landmark

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.

Front view of the South and Southeast River Station building

The South and Southeast Station is a river station located in Commerce Square, Lisbon, where you can catch the boats that connect to the south bank of the Tagus. Next to the Navy Dock and Commerce Square, it is a historic spot 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.

Commerce Square seen from the South and Southeast River Station — Located next to Commerce Square

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 1, 2021.

Interior detail of the South and Southeast River Station building — The interior of the South and Southeast River Station building

Its tile panels featuring coats of arms of cities in Alentejo and Algarve were restored and illuminated with LED.

However, the marble floors, tiles, Art Deco inspiration, and the large clock were maintained, while its furnishings follow a minimalist style. Inside the station, you can 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 visitors to discover the Tagus through several thematic rooms, featuring an interactive water model that demonstrates the effect of the tides and a space with holograms dedicated to river-related professions and activities.

Imposing white facade of the South and Southeast River Station — Main Facade of the River Station

The station also features a cafeteria with an outdoor terrace in the former first-class waiting room, with tiles restored by the painter Alves de Sá (1878-1972).

Current importance

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 daily crossings between the banks of the Tagus. Thus, thousands of passengers use the facilities daily, taking advantage of the efficiency of river transport as a sustainable alternative to road transport.

Furthermore, 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. Check out the latest awards received by this wonderful station here.

In summary, the South and Southeast River Station is an important historical and cultural landmark in Lisbon. As such, it offers a variety of transport, leisure, and entertainment options for visitors. With its architecture, stunning views, and cultural and leisure spaces, it is a must-visit for anyone visiting the city of Lisbon.