Panoramic of Monsanto

Lisbon’s latest viewpoint is almost 50 years old. In the past, it was a luxury restaurant, a bingo hall, a nightclub, an office building and a warehouse. Now, this architectural UFO designed by Chaves da Costa has been given a new lease of life - and a much more peaceful one: it is a viewpoint, which was always its second calling anyway. The 360º view of the city and great location, in Alto da Serafina Recreational Park, make this derelict building the best place to check out the sights in Monsanto. We won’t lie: it’s the best view of the whole city. Abandoned since 2001, the Panoramic received only sporadic visits from urban explorers, tourists, curious onlookers and people armed with spray paint, who went there to do what people generally do with spray paint. Since September 2nd, 2017, it can be visited legally and safely. Lisbon City Hall removed the rubble, put protections in place, and is soon going to tackle the walls full of sentences like “I can’t live without you Albino”. However, this won’t be the Panorâmico’s last refurbishing: the final transformation will happen in the future, after we find out who won an ideas competition due to be launched by City Hall in its next mandate. Until then, enjoy.