Today marks the 27th anniversary of the opening of the doors of the great world exhibition Expo’98, a date that would change the history of the country’s capital forever, projecting Portugal to the world.
We’re going to look back at some of the photographs from that day, but also highlight some of the initiatives that will be taking place this year to mark this date, especially the inauguration of new spaces in the iconic Pavilion of Portugal.
What’s happening today?
As a way of reinforcing the innovative and cultural legacy left by this major world exhibition in our city, the Parque das Nações Parish Council is marking these celebrations with the inauguration of the North Tower of this pavilion (at 5pm), in what will be a much-anticipated moment for the local and national community, since, as of tomorrow, the country will be able to count on three new spaces that promise to enrich the cultural, academic and historical life of the city:
- 24h Study Room: an innovative space, open to all students, managed by the University of Lisbon, which offers unique conditions for study and the exchange of knowledge, available at any time of the day;
- António Mega Ferreira Library: a tribute to one of the main driving forces behind Expo’98, this library houses the collection of books donated to the city by António Mega Ferreira himself. The space, managed by Lisbon City Council with the support of the Parque das Nações Parish Council, will be available for public consultation at the Portugal Pavilion;
- Parque das Nações Interpretive Center: a facility run by the Parque das Nações Parish Council, this center will allow visitors to travel back in time, discovering models, documents and materials that depict the transformation of Lisbon ‘ s eastern area, from before Expo’98 until now.
As has also been the custom since 2022, this day will also pay tribute to the workers who helped set up Expo’98, with a bouquet of flowers being laid next to the monument dedicated to these professionals, who came from all over the world to build this great work and transform this eastern part of Lisbon forever.
A wreath will also be laid at the tombstone remembering the names of those who died during the construction of Expo’98.
Remembering the day
Expo’98 was a real turning point in Lisbon’s history, in every sense, especially culturally and architecturally.
The revitalization of an area that had been left abandoned, transforming it into what is now Parque das Nações, is proof of this, and today it is a symbol of modernity and quality of life.
So today we bring you some memories of the first day of the opening of Expo’98. Congratulations Expo!
