Walking on Geodiversity: the Artistic Stone-Paved Sidewalks of Lisbon (Portugal) and Their Heritage Value

Sidewalks are not a trivial topic. They fundamental element of streets, the main public spaces in urban environments. In modern cities, paving materials mostly artificial. Portugal, stone-paved sidewalks still prevalent and quite characteristic. Walking down street, you do need to lift your eyes off ground know Portugal. nineteenth-century Lisbon, new type pavement was introduced, calçada portuguesa, Portuguese artistic mainly made with white black limestone or basalt. This is examined herein. More than simply highlighting its geological components, different meanings values will be discussed from semiotic perspective. It also debated how this geocultural heritage asset became key shaping city’s image. How it boosted Lisbon’s memorability, thus generating strong sense place among inhabitants. So much so that these days patterns everywhere, table ware post stamps, even on socks. And yet, long-term survival may peril. To ensure preservation, portuguesa recently included Cultural Heritage list, crucial step towards UNESCO world status. However, document ratifying newly attained status, component neglected. maximize conservation effort, many calçada, namely ones, should actively involved, work hopefully contributing end.