How Expo 1998 Transformed Lisbon

Lisbon is comfortably nestled among seven hills at the mouth of the Tagus River, where it flows into the Atlantic Ocean. It is a city full of contrasts – from Art Nouveau buildings and mosaic-tiled sidewalks, to the iconic yellow tram winding through its narrow, steep streets, and the modern architecture that stands as a legacy of the Expo. The Specialised Expo, held under the slogan “The Oceans, a Heritage for the Future,” took place in Europe’s westernmost capital back in 1998 and played a pivotal role in Lisbon’s complete transformation.

Portugal joined the European Union in 1986, yet for a long time, it remained a hidden gem, a sleeping giant of the past. Few tourists ventured there, and those who did were often on business or visiting out of obligation. The country’s Nobel laureate, José Saramago, once described Lisbon as “a rainy city at the end of the world.”

Hosting the Specialised Expo offered a unique opportunity for urban renewal and infrastructure development, marking Lisbon's transition into a modern European capital. The revitalization of a neglected part of the city, the rejuvenation of the waterfront, and the overall transformation of Lisbon became the lasting legacy of the event, more so than the buildings constructed for it.

The chosen site for the Expo was a neglected but attractive area along the Tagus River. For decades, it was home to industries such as an oil refinery, a slaughterhouse, container warehouses, storage depots, and various workshops – a part of Lisbon that most people, except those working there, avoided altogether. All existing structures, except for the old refinery tower (which was repurposed), were demolished. In their place, modern buildings sprang up – many of which are now iconic symbols of Lisbon. To prevent these new buildings from falling into disuse after the event, their post-Expo roles were carefully planned.

Five major pavilions were built for the exhibition, and most continue to serve similar functions today. The Oceania Pavilion became the Lisbon Oceanarium, one of the largest in the world. The Utopia Pavilion was renamed the Atlantic Pavilion and now hosts sports and music events. The Vasco da Gama Tower was transformed into a luxury hotel. The Future Pavilion became Casino Lisboa, while other buildings were turned into museums or commercial spaces.

The entire area was renamed Parque das Nações (Park of Nations), although locals still fondly refer to it as "Expo." Over time, numerous companies set up headquarters in the district, transforming what was once a derelict corner of the city into one of its most modern and dynamic areas.

Following the Expo, another major transformation took place. Although this part of the city was once considered remote, excellent metro connections, proximity to the main bus station and airport, and an increasing range of cultural and culinary attractions sparked a boom in residential development. The area quickly became attractive to both new residents and tourists alike.

The exhibition itself welcomed over 10 million visitors, who discovered Lisbon in all its contrasts. Since then, tourist numbers have steadily increased. By 2023, Portugal recorded a record 26.5 million tourists, with tourism accounting for 12% of the country's GDP. Most of these visitors come to Lisbon, and the former Expo site remains a must-see destination.

Nearly three decades after Lisbon’s remarkable transformation, another Specialised Expo will be held – this time in a city that also lies at a river confluence: Belgrade, at the meeting point of the Sava and the Danube. Inspired by the example of the Portuguese capital, the organizers of Expo 2027 hope Belgrade will follow a similar path and undergo a historic transformation of its own.

“Thanks to hosting Expo, Lisbon permanently secured its place on the map of unmissable global tourist destinations – not just in Europe, but worldwide. Today, tourists are captivated by this fascinating city. It’s precisely this seed of success we aim to plant in our own country, allowing us to show the world our true spirit, through what connects all people: play, sport, and music. Whoever experiences our generosity and warmth will want to return. We hope Expo 2027 will create lasting memories for every visitor, drawing them back to the ancient heart of the Old Continent,” emphasized Dušan Borovčanin, CEO of Expo 2027 Belgrade.