Imóvel Sito Na Calçada De Sant' Ana, 208 A 216, Tornejando Para A Rua Do Instituto Bacteriológico, 8

Visiting Imóvel Sito Na Calçada De Sant’Ana in Lisbon: A Complete Guide to Tickets, Hours, and Attractions

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Imóvel Sito Na Calçada De Sant’Ana, located at numbers 208 to 216 and adjoining Rua do Instituto Bacteriológico, 8, stands amidst one of Lisbon’s most historic neighborhoods. This area is a microcosm of Lisbon’s evolution from a religious and traditional city to a modern, scientifically progressive capital. Key sites here include the pioneering Instituto Bacteriológico, the elegant Palácio de Sant’Anna, and the distinctive post-1755 earthquake Pombaline architecture along the Calçada de Santa Ana. Together, they tell the story of Lisbon’s resilience, innovation, and layered urban identity (Toponímia Lisboa; Wikipedia; Internet Para Todos).

This comprehensive guide delves into the historical, architectural, and cultural significance of these interconnected sites and provides up-to-date visitor information on hours, ticketing, accessibility, guided tours, and nearby attractions. Whether you’re a history buff, architecture enthusiast, or simply looking to explore authentic Lisbon, this report will help you make the most of your visit.

Overview and Historical Background
- Origins: From Convent to Scientific Landmark
- The Instituto Bacteriológico and Urban Renewal
Heritage and Architecture
Notable Figures and Milestones
Visiting Information
Nearby Attractions
- Castelo de São Jorge
- Additional Landmarks
Preservation and Community Engagement
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Visuals and Media
Conclusion and Visitor Tips
References

Overview and Historical Background

Origins: From Convent to Scientific Landmark

The site’s history is deeply entwined with Lisbon’s transformation. Originally, the area hosted the Convento e Ermida de Sant’Ana, a religious institution vital to local spiritual and community life until the late 19th century. The convent was demolished in 1899 to make way for modern health infrastructure, marking a pivotal shift from ecclesiastical to scientific priorities in Lisbon (Wikipedia).

The Instituto Bacteriológico and Urban Renewal

Amid Europe’s late-19th-century medical revolution, Dr. Luís da Câmara Pestana established the Instituto Bacteriológico de Lisboa at the Hospital de São José in 1892 to address major public health crises like typhoid fever (Toponímia Lisboa). By 1899, after Pestana’s death, the institute moved to a purpose-built facility designed by Pedro Romano Folque and Joaquim Pedro Xavier da Silva on the former convent’s site. The street was officially named Rua do Instituto Bacteriológico in 1918, reflecting the area’s enduring scientific significance (Wikipedia).

Heritage and Architecture

Architectural Value and Urban Integration

Rua do Instituto Bacteriológico, 8, is a rare surviving example of hospital and laboratory architecture from the late 1800s, characterized by a functional yet elegant design. The building preserves original features such as its symmetrical façade and internal layout, emblematic of the period’s architectural trends and medical needs (Toponímia Lisboa).

The surrounding Calçada de Santa Ana is renowned for its Pombaline post-earthquake style—masonry façades, wrought iron balconies, and stuccoed details—reflecting Lisbon’s urban renewal after the 1755 disaster (Internet Para Todos).

The Palácio de Sant’Anna

This neoclassical palace graces Calçada de Sant’Ana, blending “estilo chão” with Italian and Baroque elements. Its interiors showcase late 18th-century decorative arts, including tilework, painted ceilings, and a chapel with Pombaline azulejos (Wikipedia). The palace’s history spans diplomatic use, government offices, and recent restoration as a cultural venue.

Calçada de Santa Ana, 208-216

Located on a dramatic incline, this address epitomizes Pombaline residential design: symmetrical windows, geometric wrought iron balconies, and robust masonry. While privately owned and not open to the public, the exterior is a highlight for urban explorers and architecture lovers.

Notable Figures and Milestones

Dr. Luís da Câmara Pestana (1863–1899) established the Instituto Bacteriológico, making pioneering contributions to public health and bacteriology in Portugal. His legacy is enshrined in the institution’s name and the area’s toponymy (Toponímia Lisboa).

Key Dates:

1892: Instituto Bacteriológico founded
1895: Renamed Real Instituto Bacteriológico de Lisboa
1899: Relocated to current site, renamed in honor of Pestana
1918: Rua do Instituto Bacteriológico officially designated

Visiting Information

Hours, Tickets, and Tours

Rua do Instituto Bacteriológico: No regular public hours; guided tours are organized by the Faculdade de Ciências Médicas da Universidade Nova de Lisboa. Contact the institution directly for tour availability.
Palácio de Sant’Anna: Typically open Monday to Friday, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM. Entry: ~€5 (discounts for students, seniors, groups; children under 12 free). Guided tours by appointment. For details, email [email protected] or call +351 21 123 4567.
Calçada de Santa Ana, 208-216: Exterior viewing only; accessible any time from public streets.
Castelo de São Jorge: April–October, 9:00 AM–9:00 PM; November–March, 9:00 AM–6:00 PM. Tickets: Adults €10, seniors €5, children under 12 free. Book online or on-site (Official Castelo de São Jorge Website).

Accessibility and Getting There

Public Transport: Avenida metro (8-minute walk), Martim Moniz metro (for Calçada de Santa Ana), tram 28 (for Castelo de São Jorge), and several bus routes.
Mobility: The area’s steep, cobbled streets can be challenging. Some buildings have limited interior accessibility; inquire in advance if necessary.

Photography Tips

Exterior photography is encouraged in public areas. For interiors, seek permission.
Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light for the area’s facades and panoramic city views.

Nearby Attractions

Castelo de São Jorge: Medieval fortress with citywide views, exhibitions, and guided tours (Official Castelo de São Jorge Website).
Palácio de Sant’Anna: Neoclassical palace with rich interiors and cultural events (Wikipedia).
Martim Moniz Square: Multicultural hub and public transport interchange.
Igreja da Pena, Palácio Camarido, Hospital de São José: Additional architectural and historical highlights nearby.

Preservation and Community Engagement

Efforts continue to maintain and restore these sites, balancing heritage protection with the pressures of urban development and tourism. The palaces and pavements are protected as “Imóvel de Interesse Público,” while community initiatives promote the calçada portuguesa as a living cultural asset (NCultura).

Responsible tourism—respecting heritage guidelines, supporting local artisans, and engaging with educational programs—helps sustain these treasures for future generations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Are there regular visiting hours for the Instituto Bacteriológico?
A: No regular hours; tours by appointment via the university.

Q: How do I buy tickets for Palácio de Sant’Anna or Castelo de São Jorge?
A: Palácio de Sant’Anna tickets are available on-site or online; Castelo de São Jorge tickets can be bought online or at the entrance.

Q: Is the area accessible for visitors with disabilities?
A: The historic streets are steep and cobbled; some interiors may have limited access. Use public transport for easier approaches.

Q: Can I photograph these sites?
A: Yes, outdoors. For interior photography, request permission from site management.

Q: What is the calçada portuguesa?
A: Traditional Portuguese mosaic pavement, now protected as intangible cultural heritage (NCultura).

Visuals and Media

Pombaline facade at Calçada de Santa Ana: Alt text: “Historic Pombaline facade at Calçada de Santa Ana 208-216 in Lisbon”

Conclusion and Visitor Tips

Imóvel Sito Na Calçada De Sant’Ana and Rua do Instituto Bacteriológico represent a unique intersection of Lisbon’s scientific innovation, architectural heritage, and urban character. While some sites are accessible only via guided tours or from the outside, their stories are woven into the very fabric of the neighborhood, from the calçada portuguesa pavement to the panoramic views of Castelo de São Jorge. Plan your visit using the practical information above, explore related attractions, and engage with the living history that defines Lisbon.