The Top 10 News Stories in Portugal – November 16-November 23, 2024

Written By Manuel Poças

1. Family of Odair Moniz Files Complaint Against PSP for Abuse of Power

The family of Odair Moniz, killed by a police officer a month ago, filed a complaint against the Polícia de Segurança Pública (PSP) for abuse of power, following what they describe as a police invasion into a grieving home. The incident, which occurred days after Moniz’s death, is said to have caused psychological and material harm. The complaint, alleging crimes of abuse of power, damage, and violation of domicile, targets both the PSP General Command and unknown officers involved.

Moniz, a 43-year-old Cape Verdean citizen, was shot in the Cova da Moura neighborhood, leading to protests across Lisbon’s Metropolitan Area. According to the official version, Moniz fled after spotting a police vehicle and was shot while allegedly resisting arrest and attempting to use a knife. Following the incident, riots ensued, with numerous arrests and injuries, including a bus driver. The family, supported by SOS Racismo and Vida Justa, contest the police narrative, demanding a fair investigation into the case and highlighting the broader issue of police impunity.

While inquiries are ongoing, the officer involved remains on medical leave and has yet to testify before the Public Prosecutor’s Office. The family has launched an online fundraising campaign, raising over 29,000 euros to support their efforts. The complaint was formally presented on Thursday, with the family’s lawyer confirming the legal action during an event in Lisbon, further intensifying the calls for justice and accountability.

Read more from our source here.

2. 8000 Books Will be Offered at Two Lisbon Train Stations

On November 29, between 10am and 5pm, the Faculdade de Ciências Sociais e Humanas (FCSH) of the Universidade Nova de Lisboa will distribute 8000 books for free at the Entrecampos and Rossio train stations. This is part of the third edition of the “Ler é Viajar, Viaje com a NOVA FCSH” initiative. Aimed at promoting literacy, the event offers a selection of books in areas like political science, communication, sociology, international relations, and languages, including titles such as Judaísmo no Feminino by Maria Garcia and Cibercultura e Ficção.

The distribution will take place near the ticket offices at Entrecampos and near the elevators at Rossio, with additional reading materials like international relations magazines covering topics such as Biden’s foreign policy and Portugal’s role in NATO. The project, in collaboration with CP and Infraestruturas de Portugal, aims to merge “the pleasure of traveling” with knowledge-sharing and transform train stations into spaces of cultural and educational engagement, as emphasized by Rui Pedro Julião, the initiative’s coordinator.

In past editions held in May and November 2023, the initiative gave away 6000 books in Lisbon and Évora, receiving an overwhelmingly positive response from the public. The success far exceeded expectations, with so much demand that extra copies had to be brought from the university. This initiative exemplifies the university’s commitment to giving back to the community, promoting public access to scientific and academic publications.

Read more from our source here.

3. Lisbon’s Cine Society to Show Popular Christmas Movies in Penha de França

From December 12 to 22, the coworking and event space, Impact HUB Lisbon, located in Penha de França, will transform into a temporary movie theater to host Cine Society’s Christmas movie series. This initiative, which in warmer months takes place in various outdoor locations around the city, is now bringing the stars of the screen inside.

The selected films are well-known, and despite the oldest being released in 1990, they are timeless Christmas classics. Among them is Home Alone, the film that made Macaulay Culkin famous as young Kevin, who is left behind by his family and must fend off two bumbling burglars. This film will be shown twice, on December 14th and 18th, alongside Love Actually (2003), the popular romantic comedy set during Christmas that follows multiple characters, one played by Portuguese actress Lúcia Moniz, with a cast including Hugh Grant and Emma Thompson. It will be screened on December 16th and 22nd.

There will also be a screening of Home Alone 2: Lost in New York (1992), as well as The Holiday (2006), How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000), Elf (2003), Bridget Jones’s Diary (2001), The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993), and Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone (2001), the first film in the series adapted from J.K. Rowling’s books. Each session begins with live music, and food and drinks, including beer and mulled wine, will also be available. Attendees will also receive a blanket and warm popcorn. The full program and ticket information can be found on the Cine Society website.

Where? Impact HUB Lisbon (Rua Neves Ferreira 13, Penha de França).

When? December 12 to 22, at 7pm.

How much? 14.50 euros per ticket.

Read more from our source here.

4. Book Market at Marquês de Fronteira Palace in Lisbon

In December, the Palácio Marquês de Fronteira will host the second edition of “Há Livros no Palácio,” a free-entry book market. Scheduled for December 7th and 8th, the event will feature five bookshops: Snob, Tigre de Papel, Livraria da Lapa, Leituria, and De A a Zola. Visitors will find a diverse selection of new and second-hand books, including fiction, poetry, biographies, essays, history, and children’s books, all available for purchase.

In addition to the books, attendees will have the opportunity to explore the Palácio Marquês de Fronteira, a National Monument. Those who purchase a book will receive a 50% discount on access to the palace gardens that day. The guided tour of the palace’s interior, however, is not included in the promotion. The event is organized by the Fundação das Casas de Fronteira e Alorna in collaboration with the online bookstore De A a Zola, which also hosted the inaugural event in 2022.

This initiative combines literature with the cultural experience of visiting one of Lisbon’s most iconic historic sites, offering both book lovers and visitors a chance to explore the palace’s beautiful grounds while discovering a wide range of reading material.

Where? Largo de São Domingos de Benfica.

When? December 7 and 8, from 10am to 6pm.

How much? Free.

Read more from our source here.

5. Lisbon’s New Restaurant Where You Sit at the Counter and Eat with Your Hands

At Real Pérola, Olivier da Costa’s “snack-mar” concept at Largo do Rato, seafood and oysters take center stage. Opened just over a month ago, the restaurant offers a casual dining experience where patrons can enjoy fresh oysters from the Algarve, Sado, Aveiro, and France, alongside dishes like pica-pau, Olivier’s bife, and marisco rice. Olivier, drawing from both Portuguese and French influences, creates a relaxed atmosphere with a bar and counter as the focal points. The space, once a historic bakery and part of the Real Fábrica das Sedas complex, now boasts a decor mix of vibrant colors, traditional Portuguese tavern elements, and modern touches by designer Camilla Degli Espoti.

The menu blends international and local flavors: from shrimp and lobster to tartars and Russian salad. Olivier’s vision for the space was inspired by a gap in the city’s food scene for an oyster bar serving quick, quality dishes. The venue reflects a commitment to affordable indulgence—offering not only traditional Portuguese favorites like pica-pau but also French-inspired oysters and seafood. Its menu highlights, such as lobster (140 euros) and tenderloin steak (35 euros), exemplify the blend of simple yet elevated offerings.

Looking ahead, Olivier plans to open three new restaurants in 2025, each offering innovative concepts that promise to fill more gaps in Lisbon’s dining scene. The executive menu, offered during the week, costs 25€ and includes a main course with shrimp, tuna steak, or bitoque. With Real Pérola, Olivier continues to create dining spaces that balance quick meals with gourmet offerings, turning casual dining into a unique culinary experience.

Read more from our source here.

6. Christie’s Owners: The Exclusive Club of Porta da Frente Owners

Christie’s Owners is an exclusive “club” launched by Porta da Frente/Christie’s, offering members access to luxurious experiences and collaborations with top brands in art, wine, gastronomy, and high-end watchmaking. The program was introduced at a cocktail event at JNCquoi Club, featuring a concert by Cuca Roseta. The idea behind the initiative, according to João Cília, CEO of Porta da Frente, is to offer clients frequent touchpoints beyond real estate transactions, using luxury brands as partners to enhance engagement with high-net-worth individuals, particularly foreign clients looking for networking and integration into Portuguese society.

The club provides members with unique experiences, including workshops with Montblanc and Boutique dos Relógios Plus, and soon, jewelry appraisal workshops. Cília emphasizes the program’s growth potential, aiming for at least one event per month and expanding to larger client groups. The partnership offers value for brands, as they connect with 300 of the firm’s best clients, with high purchasing power, seeking exclusive experiences. This initiative, although local to Portugal, has the potential for international expansion within Christie’s affiliates.

The project is driven by a dedicated team at Porta da Frente, with over 50 luxury brands involved. Members also gain access to off-market properties and a calendar of events. At the launch, guests received a facial treatment from Sisley and a voucher for dining at José Avillez’s restaurant. The success of Christie’s Owners will be measured by client engagement and participation, with Cília highlighting the importance of maintaining strong relationships with clients throughout their journey, ensuring the program’s relevance and long-term success.

Read more from our source here.

7. 175 Years of Viúva Lamego Brings Contemporary Artists to Lisbon’s National Tile Museum

The Viúva Lamego exhibition at the National Tile Museum, titled “A Perspective of the Present, A Vision of the Future,” celebrates 175 years of history with works from 17 contemporary artists, showcasing the ongoing dialogue between the prestigious factory and modern art. This exhibition, curated by Rosário Salema de Carvalho and Francisco Queiroz, includes new and existing pieces that explore how the iconic azulejo, more than an aesthetic choice, reflects the cultural, social, and economic transformations of Portugal. It highlights the enduring collaboration between the Viúva Lamego factory and artists, architects, and designers, offering a glimpse into the future of ceramic art.

The exhibition features a rich variety of work, from established names like Bela Silva, Hervé Di Rosa, and Adriana Varejão, to emerging talents. Bela Silva’s Batucada de Cor and Di Rosa’s Subaquática showcase the influence of traditional craftsmanship, while Varejão’s Azulejão embraces the tile medium in new ways. Contemporary urban culture is also present, with works by Vhils, Add Fuel, and Noël Fischer, reflecting the modern reinterpretation of the art form. The exhibition also brings forth unique approaches, such as Manuela Pimentel’s illusionary, multi-dimensional designs and Rita João/Estúdio Pedrita’s exploration of mid-20th-century industrial tilemaking.

Gonçalo Conceição, CEO of Viúva Lamego, underscores the company’s continuous connection with artists over the decades, emphasizing that this enduring partnership remains at the heart of its legacy. He celebrates the exhibition’s significance, which not only honors Viúva Lamego’s century-long history but also elevates its role in the cultural landscape of Portuguese ceramics. The showcase serves as a stage for the brand’s influence on both traditional and contemporary art, reflecting the cultural importance of Viúva Lamego in shaping the future of tile art.

Where? Museu Nacional do Azulejo – Rua Madre Deus nº4, Lisboa.

When? Tuesday to Sunday, from 10am to 6pm (until December 29).

How much? 8 euros.

Read more from our source here.

8. Praça do Beato Hosts the Olive Oil Festival

On November 30th, Praça do Beato hosts the Olive Oil Festival at the Beato Creative Hub in Lisbon, celebrating Portugal’s olive oil culture. The event, with free entry, invites visitors to explore the varieties of olive oil, with tastings (via prior registration), music, and a children’s workshop. Five guest chefs, including Bertílio Gomes and Teresa Colaço, will create dishes using five different olive oil varieties, while Rui Pascoalinho from Pascoalini will feature artisanal ice creams with olive oil.

The festival will also include technical tastings starting at 12pm, led by journalist Edgardo Pacheco and Francisco Pavão, and priced at €15 per participant. A free debate, “Education and Brand Culture in Olive Oil,” will take place at 3pm, featuring industry leaders such as Carlos Coelho and local producers. Discussions will center on olive oil varieties, categories, and the Denominations of Origin Protected in Portugal.

For younger attendees, the Magnolia Method will conduct a creative workshop on olives and olive oil, engaging children from 1pm to 4pm. The event wraps up with DJ Fabz spinning music from 7pm to 11pm, offering a complete cultural and culinary experience, from educational insights to delicious tastings and lively entertainment.

Read more from our source here.

9. Greenvolt’s Exit from the Stock Exchange Marks Largest Exodus of Companies from Euronext Lisbon Since 2018

Euronext Lisbon is experiencing a significant exodus of companies in 2024, with Greenvolt’s departure marking the largest since 2018. Alongside Greenvolt, Reditus, Lisgráfica, and Inapa have left the stock market, each exit reflecting the company’s unique challenges. Reditus was delisted due to repeated failures in market disclosure, while Lisgráfica’s exit was driven by high listing costs and economic difficulties. Inapa, a paper distributor, lost nearly 95% of its value before entering insolvency proceedings. Greenvolt’s exit followed a mandatory acquisition by KKR, consolidating 97.6% of the company.

Despite the PSI index’s 4.3% return, the broader market has faced losses, with the PSI general index down by 10% in 2024. Liquidity remains a persistent issue, hindering both large companies and new market entrants. Euronext Lisbon’s struggle to attract and retain companies is evident, with recent listings, like Atrium Bire and Vila dos Números, failing to trade even a single share this year. The secondary market, Euronext Access Lisbon, has not delivered on its promise to provide greater access for small and medium-sized companies, showing minimal trading volume and limited visibility.

Looking ahead, 2025 could offer some relief for Euronext Lisbon, with potential major listings, including Fidelidade and Novo Banco, on the horizon. However, the national stock market’s structural challenges remain, including a lack of investment culture, preference for bank financing, and regulatory complexity. To address these, Euronext Lisbon and Portuguese regulators must simplify listing processes, incentivize tax benefits, and enhance financial education to create a more attractive ecosystem for investors and businesses alike.

Read more from our source here.

10. EMEL Updates Prices in Lisbon. Some Parking Fees Are Reduced, but Others Rise by Over 30%

Lisbon’s Municipal Parking Company (EMEL) is updating the monthly subscription prices for residents using its managed closed parking lots. While some prices will decrease, others will see significant increases, including a case where a resident’s monthly fee will rise by 32%. An email communication received by a resident of Campo de Ourique, which was accessed by ECO/Local Online, clearly indicates an increase in this case, from 35 euros to 46.3 euros per month, representing a 32% hike. This increase is expected to affect many residents with a parking permit in over two-thirds of EMEL’s parking lots.

However, the Lisbon City Hall, which oversees EMEL, clarified to ECO/Local Online that “there will be no price increase, but rather a downward revision of prices at some parking lots.” For example, residents in Rego and Chão do Loureiro, who currently pay 80 euros a month, will see a 42% reduction, saving 33.7 euros monthly. Starting in 2025, the current 24-hour resident pass will be replaced by the R24 pass, a new version designed exclusively for Lisbon residents, which allows parking in an EMEL lot in their neighborhood.

In the case of residents who already have a 24-hour resident pass with a parking sticker, the monthly fee will be adjusted to 46.3 euros, and the pass will be valid for a full month instead of the current 30 days. The Lisbon City Hall counters EMEL’s communication by stating that no Lisbon resident will end up paying more for their resident pass. The City Hall also notes that residents currently paying more than 46.3 euros will pay only the new fee. The price adjustment aims to standardize the fees across EMEL’s parking lots, with some areas seeing reductions of nearly 50%, while new subscribers will pay the uniform price of 46.3 euros, representing an increase for some parks with previously lower fees.

Read more from our source here.

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