Everytime we drove back from Lisbon centre to our place in Colares, cruising along the Avenida da Índia, I noticed a number of sea containers with graffiti just before passing under the 25 de Abril bridge. Curious about what it was we went to investigate. This is how we discovered Village Underground Lisboa.
Consisting of fourteen sea containers and two busses, Village Underground is the city’s newest creative workplace, located directly below Ponte 25 de Abril. It is a workspace for creative activities and cultural events.
Origin from London
Village Underground has been in existence since 2014 and is located on the grounds of museu de Carris, the public transport company of Lisbon.
The initiative for this creative concept came about after Mariana Duarte Silva was inspired by a similar project after staying a few months in London. With the support of Carris and the municipality, Village Underground in Lisbon became a reality.
Access via Carris museum
Village Underground is located next to LX-Factory, but it’s easy to miss. To get there you have to walk through the gates of the museum Carris. Don’t forget to report to the doorman.
We walked under the barriers, but were immediately stopped. It’s no problem to visit Village Underground, as long as you notify the doorman, he’ll show you the way.
Sea containers and buses as spaces
Village Underground has two different spaces: a workspace for the creative community and a multicultural space with a coffee shop where you can order a coffee, a drink and a snack.
You can also sit outside and there’s even a swing for the kids. If the swing is occupied, there is plenty to discover for the little ones. I mean, there’s a bus up in the air!
Workation in a sea container
If you have plans to work in Lisbon for a while, it might be worth considering having Village Underground as your office.
In a sea container there is room for five people to work, prices vary between 150 and 200 euros per person per month and include internet, electricity and air conditioning. The idea is to bring your own table and chair. If you come to work temporarily, you can rent a place (with table and chair) starting at €15/day.
We thought this was a great place, so unexpected with a relaxed atmosphere. Have a cup of coffee at the coffee bar, enjoy the view and the atmosphere. Feel inspired and start writing, just like we did.
Where to find Village Underground Lisboa
Address: Rua 1º de Maio 103, Alcântara
Opening hours every day from 11 a.m.- 19 p.m.
