It seems incredible, but the truth is that we had already anticipated this kind of initiative at moreof Lisbon’s viewpoints, which, starting in May, will have turnstiles and a time limit for enjoying the sunset.
Whether at the Senhora do Monte viewpoint, the São Pedro de Alcântara viewpoint, or the Santa Luzia viewpoint—to name just a few of the best-known ones— starting May 1 (Labor Day), access to these iconic spots offering breathtaking views of nature will be subject to stricter rules.
Goal: to put an end to “camping”
If you’ve ever been to any of Lisbon’s many viewpoints, you’ve surely noticed the huge flow of tourists passing through, lingering in these spots for too long, preventing many other visitors from capturing the perfect photo.
Any Lisboner knows that securing a spot on the ramparts of São Jorge Castle (which already has this type of regulated access) at sunset is a nearly impossible mission; amidst tripods, guitars, and picnic blankets, the view over the “Alfacinha” houses and the Tagus River is increasingly monopolized by the mass tourism the city has been receiving for the past few years—and it is believed that this year will be one of the busiest.
With these kinds of constraints in mind, and to ensure everyone gets a turn, a drastic pilot project has been approved— one that may yield some results: the installation of access controls at new scenic spots in the capital.
How will the “Panoramic Rotation” system work?
The restriction measure for Lisbon’s viewpoints (only the most popular ones, since few people know about these lesser-known spots) will launch on a trial basis as early as next week, using a crowd management system similar to those found in major European museums.
The first to receive the smart glass turnstiles will be the Graça, Senhora do Monte, Santa Catarina (Adamastor), and São Pedro de Alcântara viewpoints .
The new rules that are causing controversy
As might be expected, both from tourists who are already aware of this change and from Lisbon residents who live near these locations, this measure is already generating some controversy on social media.
Among the rules already known, the following stand out:
- Time limit at the viewpoint
- Visual traffic lights
- Ticket system
To address complaints from local residents, they will be granted a sort of “Green Pass.” That is, residents with a registered address in the historic parishes will be entitled to a special card that allows them to “skip the line” and extend their viewing time to 20 minutes.
We also learned that anyone who violates the new rules— specifically by ignoring the illuminated signs— will have the turnstiles temporarily blocked and will be required to pay a fine, the TOEEC (Excessive Occupation of Scenic Space Fee) in the amount of 15 euros, with this amount going toward the daily cleaning of the viewpoints equipped with this technology.
The first trials begin today, April 1, with the city divided in its opinions, between those who applaud and those who lament this measure that severely restricts individual freedoms.
This article is a bit of fun from Lisboa Secreta. We hope you enjoyed reading it as much as we enjoyed writing it 😁
Happy April Fools’ Day!
