Tourists Disappointed as Iconic Lisbon Landmarks Close Due to Strike

Tourist Outcry in Belém

Dozens of tourists expressed sadness and frustration this Friday as they found several iconic monuments in Belém, Lisbon, closed due to a workers' strike demanding better pay for holiday shifts.

Among the affected sites are the Mosteiro dos Jerónimos, Torre de Belém, and Fortaleza de Sagres. The strike, initiated by the National Federation of Public and Social Workers' Unions (FNSTFPS), began this Friday and is set to continue through all holidays until the end of the year.

According to union representative Catarina Simão, at least the Mosteiro dos Jerónimos, Torre de Belém, Fortaleza de Sagres, Convento de Cristo (in Tomar), and Paço de Guimarães were closed by 10:30 AM.

In Lisbon, the Museums of Coaches, Azulejo, and Ancient Art, as well as Machado de Castro in Coimbra, Rainha D. Leonor in Beja, and Frei Manuel do Cenáculo in Évora were also shut down.

Signs of Discontent

In front of the Mosteiro dos Jerónimos, a sign in both Portuguese and English explained the closure: "Monument closed due to strike." Amid heavy rain, tourists showed their disappointment and disillusionment when denied access.

Manoli, visiting from Madrid, lamented, "It's not fair that we came from Spain and can't enter on Good Friday with tickets bought!". Similarly, Marcela from Mexico City expressed her disappointment, stating, "I came from far away, and this is the most important place to visit in Lisbon. I'm really sad that I can't get in."

Judy, visiting from the United States, echoed this sentiment, saying, "We'll try to come back tomorrow, but we have the whole trip planned. We don’t know if we can manage it."

Workers’ Struggle

At the monument's entrance, Orlando Almeida from FNSTFPS provided explanations to tourists and assured journalists that the workers are united in their fight for fair holiday pay and supplemental work remuneration.

He mentioned that worker representatives met with the Culture Minister in December, and although negotiations were promised to begin in January, only one meeting occurred in late March, which did not yield any proposals.

"It's clear that workers need a response and recognition for their work, as they open museums and heritage sites on holidays, weekends, and weekdays. This sector is crucial for tourism and education," Almeida emphasized.

Despite the government claiming to have improved the conditions of 17 professions, these workers continue to earn around 15 to 20 euros per day or approximately three euros per hour for supplemental work. Almeida pointed out, "Coming to work on a holiday often costs them more than they earn, considering travel expenses."

Visitor Statistics

In 2023, the 38 sites managed by Museus e Monumentos de Portugal recorded over five million visits, not all of which were paid. According to the union, this public company employs about 1,100 workers.

In response to the situation, the Museus e Monumentos de Portugal stated that they will continue dialogue with unions to progressively address workers' demands, including those related to supplemental work remuneration, which requires a review of current legal frameworks.