We’re talking about the oldest traffic sign in the world, over 330 years old, which you can still find today at Rua do Salvador 26, in Alfama.
This is a plaque from the late 17th century, ordered by King Pedro II, which reads as follows:
Year 1686. His Majesty orders the coaches, mules and litters that come from the Salvador Gate to return to the same part”.
In other words, the traffic sign indicated that those going downhill had to give way to the carts (and the like) coming up.
This prevented brawls and duels, which were common at the time and even caused injuries and deaths.
All this because there was a “misaligned” building on that narrow street, which strangled the passage even more.
Now, space is still limited, but there are no reports of disagreements. And if they appear, there will be a sign to call the drivers to order.
Se ainda havia dúvidas, Lisboa é das cidades mais stressantes para conduzir