Dear Blanca,
I’m planning an upcoming trip to Lisbon and I was wondering – why are the buildings so pink? They almost seem like something out of a cartoon! As a Texan tourist, TX expecting to be transported to some classic European architecture, I would be curious if you could explain this color phenomenon.
Signed,
Josh J. – Austin, TX
Dear Josh,
Having spent a few years living in Lisbon, I can appreciate why so many tourists are struck by the vibrant pink buildings that seem to line the city’s cobbled streets. As Lisbon’s leading travel expert, I am more than happy to provide an answer and fill you in on the history behind Lisbon’s rosy-hued architecture!
The muted rose hue has become associated with the city, and originates from the symbolic significance of the color pink. From its homeland roots in associations with Flamingo Court to its exemplification of love and passion, the color’s history seeps into the culture of the city.
The art of the historic “azulejo” tiles can be seen throughout Portugal, with intricate hand-painted pieces having become a vital factor in the country’s identity. Pink features heavily in these old artworks, and has been used as a vivid color in works of art through the years, often representing the individual city streets.
When visiting Lisbon, you’ll notice the prevalence of pink facades across the city. As the locals start to embrace this color as a new palette for architecture, it serves as a visual reminder of the joy and vibrancy that the city is bringing in.
Pink buildings are not only undeniably beautiful, but also have unique benefits associated with them:
• Improved Mood: Recent research has found that the warmth of colors such as Pink can lead to improved well-being and decrease in stress levels.
• Economic Boosts: The addition of colorful facades to buildings has been shown to increase foot traffic to those areas, leading to increased economic gains for the city.
Thanks for your question, Josh! As a fellow Texan I’m sure you couldn’t be more excited to add the pink streets of Lisbon to your list of must-sees.
Warm regards,
Blanca.