Oriente Station

The Gare do Oriente in Lisbon is an architectural work of great visual and symbolic impact, designed by the Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava. Inaugurated in 1998 on the occasion of Expo ’98, the station has become one of the main transport hubs of the Portuguese capital, as well as a symbol of modernity and innovation. The station is located in Parque das Nações, a vast urban area redeveloped for the Expo, situated along the Tagus River. This area, once industrial and degraded, has been transformed into a modern district with residential buildings, offices, green spaces, and cultural infrastructure, including the Oceanário de Lisboa and the Pavilhão de Portugal. The Gare do Oriente is one of Santiago Calatrava’s most ambitious and recognized projects, known for his distinctive style that combines organic elements with futuristic forms. The station is characterized by a wavy steel and glass roof that evokes the image of a forest or a Gothic cathedral. This transparent roof allows natural light to flood the interior of the station, creating a bright and airy environment that contrasts with the robustness of the concrete structures. The station is developed on different levels, each with a specific function. At the lower level are the railway tracks, serving both regional and national trains, including high-speed services. This level is designed to ensure an efficient flow of passengers, with wide platforms and direct access to the platforms. The intermediate level houses a large commercial area, with shops, restaurants, and services that make the station a true center of urban life. At the upper level, there is a large public square, covered by the spectacular glass and steel structure, which serves as a meeting and socializing space for travelers and residents. The construction of the Gare do Oriente represented a significant engineering challenge, not only due to the complexity of Calatrava’s design, but also due to the need to integrate the station into the existing urban fabric and the context of the redevelopment of Parque das Nações. The project required the use of advanced technologies and innovative materials, as well as meticulous planning to ensure compliance with deadlines for Expo ’98. Artistically, the Gare do Oriente is considered a masterpiece of contemporary architecture. Its innovative structure and iconic design have received numerous international awards and have made Santiago Calatrava one of the most influential architects of our time. The station is often compared to other great works by Calatrava, such as the Liège-Guillemins Station in Belgium and the Oculus in New York, for its ability to combine functionality and aesthetic beauty. An interesting anecdote about the Gare do Oriente concerns its inauguration. Expo ’98, with the theme “The Oceans, a Heritage for the Future,” was a highly significant international event that attracted millions of visitors to Lisbon. The station, with its design that recalls natural forms and the fluidity of movement, perfectly represented the spirit of the exhibition, celebrating the connection between man and nature and the importance of sustainability.