Rossio Square is a popular name of the Pedro IV Square in Lisbon, the capital of Portugal. The square has been a cultural, social and political center for centuries. In the past the square used to be the seat of the inquisition, hence the history of the square is very bloody as the Rossio was used as the setting for public executions. The execution of two thousand Jewish neophytes in 1506 is considered to be the most tragic historic event that took place on the square. Today it attracts visitors with its cafes and restaurants, whereas the seat of the inquisition was replaced with the beautiful edifice of the Maria II National Theatre, which was erected in the 19th century. In the middle of the square there is the column, which is believed to commemorate king Pedro IV, however, the statue placed atop of the column depicts the Austrian prince Maximilian.
