Lisbon is a city defined by its public squares, known as praças or largos, and while there are hundreds of small neighborhood plazas, there are approximately 15 to 25 major "iconic" squares that form the heart of the city's social and historical life. The most famous is the Praça do Comércio, a massive waterfront square with grand yellow buildings that once served as the gateway to the city. Other critical hubs include the Rossio Square (Praça Dom Pedro IV) with its distinctive wave-patterned cobblestones, and the lively Praça Luís de Camões in the Chiado district. In 2026, these squares continue to serve as the primary meeting points for locals and the starting points for iconic yellow trams. Each square tells a different story: the Praça da Figueira is a bustling market hub, while the Largo do Carmo offers a more somber, historic atmosphere near the ruins of the Carmo Convent. Collectively, these spaces represent the "living rooms" of Lisbon, where the city’s vibrant culture and history are most visible.