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Earthquake in Lisbon: How to Prepare for an Earthquake and Protect Your Family

On February 17, 2025, Lisbon felt the ground shake. At around 1:24 pm, a 4.7 magnitude earthquake was felt, with its epicentre 14 km from Seixal, and most intensely felt in Almada and Sesimbra. Fortunately, there was no damage, but the moment served as an important reminder: we live in an active seismic zone, and preparation is our greatest ally.

In this article we look at the earthquake that shook Lisbon on February 17, 2025 and how to prepare for a future earthquake and protect your family

Earthquake in Lisbon: How to Prepare

Create a family emergency plan

Identify and secure the objects that may fall and cause additional damage in your home

Identify the safest and most dangerous places in your home

Prepare an emergency kit with disaster supplies

Follow the evacuation procedures

You can take simples steps to get ready for the next earthquake. It's coming for sure, we just don't know when.

Earthquake Preparation Plan

If your next destination is Lisbon, get to knowthese 16 essential thingsto do inthis city, through Paul and Mark’s eyes.

They are two curious and adventurous travelers that provide practical information to help people make the most of their trips with their blog “Anywhere we Roam”. 

The most recent article is called “16 ESSENTIAL THINGS TO DO IN LISBON – A COMPLETE GUIDE + MAP” and gathers the best experiences and attractions of Lisbon, in which Quake is included. 

To know more about it and to understand the funny story of Paul about pastéis de nata, click here.

If your next destination is Lisbon, get to know these 16 essential things to do in this city, through Paul and Mark’s eyes.  If your next destination is Lisbon, get to know these 16 essential things to do in this city, through Paul and Mark’s eyes.

16 Essential Things to Do in Lisbon – Anywhere We Roam

What are tectonic plates?

Tectonic Plates and Moving Plates

What is a seismometer?

Seismometer

The four types of seismic waves

P&S Waves

Fault lines and earthquakes

Earthquakes and Faults

What is continental drift?

Continental Drift

How to measure the size of an earthquake?

The Size of an Earthquake

The related effects of an earthquake

Related Effects

Are we prepared for the next earthquake?

Are we prepared for the next one?

The San Francisco and Tohoku earthquakes

San Francisco and Tohoku

Jesuit book censor Priest

The 1755 Lisbon Earthquake and the story of the carpenter

Carpenter accused of bigamy

The 1755 Lisbon Earthquake and the story of the bleeding barber

Surgeon Bleeding Barber 

The 1755 Lisbon Earthquake and the story of the German merchant

The German merchant

The inquiry in to the Lisbon earthquake

Inquérito

The Lisbon plan - How to build a city for the future

Lisbon Plan

The 1755 Lisbon earthquake - The response

Providências 

The 1755 Lisbon earthquake - The hunt for three missing documents

The three missing documents

The 1755 Lisbon earthquake - What was lost

The losses

The 1755 Lisbon earthquake - The tsunami

The Tsunami

The 1755 Lisbon earthquake - The fires

How the fires started and propagated

The aftermath of the Lisbon Earthquake

What happened right after the quakes

Lisbon and traditional rite masses

Traditional Rite Masses  

The Lisbon earthquake and the Catholic Church

Presence of the Catholic Church

The richness of Lisbon and gold smuggling

Richness of the city and gold smuggling

Lisbon and it's connection with the colonized territories

The connection with the colonized territories

Portugal Tectonics and Lisbon Quakes

After the disaster, it was up to Marquês de Pombal, then Secretary of State, to reorganize the city and ensure that order in the kingdom was restored as soon as possible. Through plans developed by military engineers Manuel da Maia, Eugénio dos Santos and Carlos Mardel, the Secretary implemented a city plan in close relation with the Enlightenment ideals, with orthogonal wide streets and no longer a skyline dominated by church towers and palace domes.

Concerned that a similar tragedy would recur, Marquês de Pombal wanted to ensure that the buildings would have an anti-seismic system. A new construction technique - ‘gaiola pombalina’ -was developed, inspired by traditional methods and thereafter used systematically. Legend has it that the resistance of the structure was tested by the battalion led by Carlos Mardel. The soldiers marched vigorously to imitate seismic waves and the structure resisted. A global sewage system was also implemented and the water supply to the city was improved.

As a result of this measures, the city looks today completely different than it did before the earthquake: in Praça do Comércio, then called Terreiro do Paço, used to be the Royal Palace. Where is now the riverside walk Ribeira das Naus, used to stand the majestical opera house Ópera do Tejo. The Rossio square, the beating heart of the contemporary city, used to be home to the largest hospital in the city, named Hospital Real de Todos os Santos. These and many other important buildings were destroyed, changing forever the face of Lisbon and bringing to life what are now some of the top Lisbon and Portugal tourist attractions and museums.

The birth of a new Lisbon

On the days before the Earthquake, Lisbon impressed foreigners and travellers with its wealth, palaces and churches. The torrent of gold that came from Brazil allowed feasting parties and sumptuous fireworks, as well as the building of majestic monuments such as the brand new Opera House –inaugurated in March 1755, it was famous for its richness, sumptuousness and sheer size: 600 people in the audience, four stories of cabins (38 in total) and a stage so deep that it could accommodate 25 horses.

There were the golden ciboria of the Patriarchal Church, the coffers of the House of India, the jewels of the Church of S. Roque, the clocks and the silver plates of the aristocratic families. Inside the churches, diamonds glittered on linen, curtains and dressings, and the forged wrought ironwork of precious metals shined on the altars. Another way to show off your wealth was to exhibit your staff, the most extreme example being the famous Patriarchal Church, with its legion of musicians and singers. The Cardinal Patriarch circulated through the streets on his car with dozens of servants, dressed in wide breeches, with red hats and red robes, embroidered in gold, imitating the Pope’s entourage.

In 1755 Lisbon, it was somewhat normal to possess luxurious objects from India and China—porcelain, silk, and furniture made from precious woods. True luxury, however, was found in products from Europe like the clothing of rich women, dressed in the French fashion, and wrought with Oriental shawls. The walls of the palaces could contain the rarest treasures, like in the house of Duque de Lafões, where paintings of Titian, Veronesi and Rubens were hanging. At Paço da Ribeira, where King José I lived, there were tapestries from Flanders, ceilings painted by Italian masters and Chinese porcelain, a vast library, and all the rare objects accumulated by centuries of diplomatic gifts.

From visitors letters, we also know that Lisbon was filthy and smelly, with narrow streets filled with stray dogs and large cattle, but still we can only but guess how incredibly beautiful and rich this city must have been!

The Lisbon that was lost to an Earthquake

The Lisbon that was lost

Tsunamis are rare occurrences in Europe, and this fact makes the 1755 tsunami an even more extraordinary event, since it crossed the entire Atlantic. As a transoceanic tsunami, it can be compared to the 2004 Sumatra tsunami and other tsunamis that cross the Pacific. Tsunamis with these characteristics are usually generated by large faults with very large movements. It is believed that a fault like that broke in 1755. According to the studies developed on this field, the fault that broke and deformed the ocean floor in 1755 was a fault 100km long and 50km wide. This same fault would have affected the ocean floor, it is estimated, in about 20m high, thus causing a transoceanic tsunami.

The records that we can access today corroborate this analysis, with reports on the impact of the tsunami in England, France, Brazil, Canada and the Caribbean where, for example, 3m waves were observed. The biggest impact was indeed in Portugal, but also in Morocco and southern Spain. Historical reports show that in Cadiz the waves would have reached more than 10m. As for Mainland Portugal, 10 to 15m waves would have reached Sagres area and in Lisbon it is estimated that they have reached 5m.

One of the reports that can be studied today is from an English sea captain that was in Lisbon on the day of Earthquake. Bugio Fort, still visible today at the mouth of the Tagus River, was surrounded by the tsunami waters and the sea captain, on his boat, observed the following events: “… The Castle of Bugio was so far overcome by the water, that the garrison fired several guns as signals for help, and were obliged to retire to the upper part of the tower. By my best judgment, the water rose in five minutes about 16 feet (approximately 5 meters), and at two in the afternoon the tide returned to its natural course”.

It is known today that the waves of a tsunami travel on high seas at the speed of commercial airplanes, at about 800km per hour, but that speed is much slower than the speed of seismic waves, which travel at 8/9/10km per second. Thus, it is known that there is a time between the arrival of seismic waves and the waves of a tsunami. In 1755, the estimated arrival time of the tsunami waves at Bugio Fort is 30 minutes. As for Lisbon centre, since the water depth is much smaller, the waves propagated much slower, so it is estimated that it took perhaps 70 or 90 minutes for the tsunami waves to reach the city.

The Tsunami of the 1755 Lisbon Earthquake

Earth, water and fire: a tragedy never comes alone

On the 1st of November 1755, at around 9:40 AM, an intense earthquake hit the city, destroying most of its buildings, streets and squares. A tsunami followed the earthquake, between 60 and 90 minutes after the shakes, with waves of around 5m height coming from the Tagus river and flooding the city riverside, about to where is today Arco da Rua Augusta. Simultaneously, fires propagated, originated by the stoves in the houses and the candelabra in the churches, but also set by criminals that took the chance to plunder palaces and churches. D. José I and his family survived the earthquake due to the princesses wishing to spend the public holiday at their countryside residence, the Royal Palace of Belém. The area of Belém, considered at the time one of the outskirts of the city, was populated by only palaces and farms, therefore, the effect of the Earthquake was not as devastating as in the city.

Studied soon after its occurrence by countless figures linked to the social sciences, it was Kant who gave the discussion a more scientific approach, trying to explain the earthquake by implosions that occurred underground, that would happen especially in places near rivers or the sea, which were filled with water, as it was Lisbon. More than 265 years have passed since the fateful day and many were those who afterwards dedicated themselves to the study of the Great Lisbon Earthquake, researching to discover its most likely origin and the real impact it had in Lisbon and in the rest of world.

Since in 1755 seismometers did not yet exist, the historical records that do exist are the result of the well-known Inquérito (Inquiry) created by Marquês de Pombal, which documents what was felt and observed by the survivors. Very complete records - questioning about the direction of movements and the duration of the shakes -, which allow estimating the intensities felt and also knowing which were the most affected areas. Through these historical reports it is possible to know that the earthquake lasted around seven to nine minutes, with three waves of shakes - the second being the most violent of all - and with short intervals between them. According to these documents and thanks to a deep research in the field of seismology, made possible through the evolution of methods and recording instruments, it is possible to evaluate the 1755 Earthquake with a magnitude between 8.5 and 9.

At the time of the earthquake it was not yet known, but today it is known that the outermost layer of our planet, the lithosphere, is formed by several tectonic plates sliding over the mantle of the asthenosphere in a continuous movement. Earthquakes are sudden movements between plates as they collide, when they separate or when they move laterally in relation to each other. The distant cause of the Great Earthquake may have been the collision between the Eurasia and African plates. These plates collide south of Portugal, along a border stretching from the Azores to the Mediterranean. Off the Algarve, the plates approach each other at a slow rate, 4 to 5 mm/year, in a northwest-southeast direction. Over time, this relative movement accumulates stresses and energy in the lithosphere, which is eventually released abruptly in an earthquake, as occurred on November 1, 1755.

Exactly which fault or combination of faults generated the 1755 Earthquake remains a well-guarded secret of history, because seismometers did not yet exist at the time and the existing observations are compatible with various fault rupture scenarios. Scientists continue to actively explore the various scenarios in the hope of revealing the origin of the 1755 Earthquake. Today, what can be said with confidence is that the fault or faults that ruptured in 1755, causing the earthquake and tsunami, are located off the Algarve and are probably more than 100 km long in total.

The earthquake sowed destruction and death in Portugal, Spain and Morocco, and the effects of the vibration were observed all over Europe. However, the Lisbon of 1755, capital of a vast colonial empire that spread across the globe, was undoubtedly the main stage of this natural disaster, considered by many to be one of the greatest catastrophes of modern times.

The Lisbon earthquake - One of the greatest natural disasters of modern times

One of the greatest natural disasters of modern times

Lisbon 1755 - A city of contrasts

The 1755 Lisbon earthquake - The The King's Ministers

The King's Ministers

Anti Seismic Constructions

The streets of Lisbon during the 1755 earthquake

The people in the streets

The story of the African enslaved woman bought to Lisbon

African enslaved woman bought in Lisbon

You don't see it but the world is changing under your feet. Epic forces, forces that we don't fully understand, are at work every day. 

The great earthquakes do not happen only to others and the one in 1755 in Lisbon was not just another earthquake. It swallowed up the capital of an empire and its shock waves accelerated history. And changed until today the way we see the world. The Great Lisbon Earthquake did not happen here by accident. Today, as 266 years ago, Portugal is situated on the border of tectonic plates and on the edge of two major seismic faults. 

Of all natural disasters, major earthquakes are the most unpredictable (if there is one thing that scientists agree on, it's the difficulty of predicting them). We know it will happen, we know where it will happen but we don't know when. Uncertainty tires us, we know. Discover, learn and experience for the first time, no. In a more open, more connected and more uncertain world, take two things for granted. It is not "if", it is "when". And, whatever happens, another one. We are better when we are ready. 

The change under your feet

"You don't see it but the world is changing under your feet."

Quake - Lisbon Earthquake Center, is a thematic experience that, as a narrative, allows us to see, feel and understand the 1755 Lisbon Earthquake. 

In the form of time travel, it is an invitation to discover more about the 1755 Earthquake, the Age of Enlightenment, Lisbon and seismic events in general. Quake is at the same time an entertaining, sensorial and pedagogical experience. It not only takes us to 18th century Lisbon, but also invites us to play a role in the unfolding of events. Historical and scientific accuracy, the use of technology and its narrative - immersive during and intuitive after the visit - are combined to awaken our will and interest in discovering more, in the present.  

To be better prepared for a new earthquake is therefore the raison d'être of Quake. The occurrence of a new big earthquake with consequences in Portugal is not, by the Atlantic location of the country, a question of "if", but of "when"*. The (great) earthquakes, like that of 1755, object of Quake, are distinguished from other natural disasters and catastrophes for two reasons: they are the most deadly and the most unpredictable. There is a consensus in the scientific community that, in light of what we know today, it is difficulty to predict them. The purpose of Quake is to increase the preparedness - awareness and knowledge, mutual aid and response capacity - of each and every one of us in the face of a new major seismic event.  

At Quake, we believe that we should be prepared, that we should "Expect the unexpected". Because as an entertainment experience, Quake surprises us at every step; because as educational equipment, Quake stimulates us to explore the unknown; because the dimension of the Lisbon Earthquake of 1755 - the object of Quake - challenges us; because earthquakes are the most difficult natural disasters to predict; because the world is increasingly complex, ambiguous and volatile, more uncertain. 

This was the thought that led us to "Expect the unexpected", synthesis of the experience and signature of the brand, which contains and connects the idea of playful challenge of the experience itself with the challenge of knowledge, for a better preparation for a, more than certain, real earthquake. 

*Portugal is located on the Eurasian Plate, limited to the south by the active fault Azores-Gibraltar, which is the border between the Eurasian and African Plates, and to the west is the dorsal fault of the Atlantic Ocean. 

Our purpose

"To be better prepared for a new earthquake is the raison d'être of Quake."

Quake was born from the desire to complement Lisbon's increasingly rich and dynamic leisure and cultural offer - a city with a welcoming climate and people, attracting many visitors throughout the year. 

There is no doubt that the tourism sector has been bringing business opportunities and diverse investment to Lisbon. However, it is fundamental that these projects add value to the city itself, being sustainable both in their economic aspect and in their connection with the city and its citizens. 

When we arrive at an airport terminal and visit a city centre, how many times have we thought that everything is more and more the same - from the same shops of the big international franchises, to the smallest souvenir shops, as well as the several ferris wheels and sightseeing proposals - and that, therefore, the specific place where we are could, after all, be in the heart of so many other cities. 

Seeking to combat this offer standardization, which simultaneously eliminates the authenticity of a city, Quake presents itself as an attraction that mirrors the identity of Lisbon but also as a meeting point between inhabitants and tourists. Because it is about an event that marked an era and is an integral part of the history of Lisbon, blending in with it, it does not deprive it of its character; because it is an immersive and sensorial experience and, at the same time, a cultural equipment, it encourages the acquisition of knowledge in a fun and simple way; and because it explores a type of natural event that occurs recurrently in other geographies, reaching us in many ways, Quake has a universal ambition. 

Entertainment, History and Science are thus the pillars on which this experience and its brand are built on. 

Sustainable Tourism

Quake was born from the desire to complement Lisbon's increasingly rich and dynamic leisure and cultural offer - a city with a welcoming climate and people who attract many visitors throughout the year.

"Quake presents itself as an attraction that mirrors the identity of Lisbon but also as a meeting point between inhabitants and tourists."

1. Get to know the new attraction in town: Quake – Lisbon Earthquake Centre

2. Delight yourself with the famous Pastéis de Belém

3. Unravel the city’s past at Lisbon Museum

4. Marvel at Jerónimos Monastery

5. Find your inner explorer at Torre de Belém

6. Discover the narrow streets of Alfama District

7. Gaze at fabulous azulejos artworks in the National Tiles Museum

8. Trace glorious history at Baixa - from Praça do Comércio to Rossio

9. Hop aboard Hippo Trip

10. Ride Tram 28

In this list we look at the best things to do in Lisbon for summer 2022, we look at some of the newest attractions in Lisbon this year as well as some of the best most enduring things to do.

Lisbon is one of the oldest cities in the world, and the second-oldest European capital city, predating other modern European capitals by centuries. It has been the political, economic and cultural centre of Portugal for hundreds of years, but its magic has as much to do with its rich history as it does with its vibrant and colourful streets. Filled with a mix of old and modern shops, restaurants, cafes, monuments, riverside walks and attractions - where locals and tourists easily blend under sunlight that is always mild and pleasant -Lisbon has plenty of activities to offer. Here’s a list of the top 10 best things to do in the city:

The 10 best things to do in Lisbon 2022

Top 10 things to do in Lisbon 2022

Rua Cais da Alfândega Velha, 39 | 1300-598 Lisbon, Portugal

Quake - Lisbon Earthquake Museum is located near to Avenida da Índia, in the historic area of Belém. The best way to get to Quake is by public transport - bus, train or tram, which connect the area to many points in the city of Lisbon and the other side of the river (information below). Bicycle, scooter, or even car, can also be good alternatives, but remember that parking in this area is scarce.

Quake - Lisbon Earthquake Museum is located near to Avenida da Índia,  in the historic area of Belém.

Opening Hours

Quake is located next to Museu Nacional dos Coches, MAAT and Central Tejo. It is also 10 minutes away from Mosteiro dos Jerónimos, Centro Cultural de Belém and Padrão dos Descobrimentos, and about 20 minutes away from Torre de Belém.

CRIL/A36/IC17, Avenida Marginal, 25 de Abril Bridge/A2

Avenida da Índia | Calçada da Ajuda | Rua da Junqueira

Lisbon commute trains: Cascais - Cais do Sodré

Nearest stops: Estação Fluvial Belém | Belém | Belém - Calçada da Ajuda

Alexandre de Sá Pinto Street (near Campo das Salésias)


Praça do Império (Centro Cultural de Belém)

Blog | Quake

Absolutely brilliant. Really immersive experience. Fantastic experience. Not like a tradional museum at all. Family loved it. We’ve been to a lot of museums, this one rates as one of the best of all. Go!

All of your senses are stimulated, from amazing sound quality, brilliant video reels, smells and even heat from the burning buildings. It’s great for all ages and we would highly recommend a visit.

Excellent story telling, very informative, very well designed and organised. My 10 year olds loved it and have been pondering over the question posed throughout the experience: “what would you do?”