Rua Nova do Carbalho, known locally as Rua Cor-de-Rosa ("Pink Street"), is the evolving product of the transformation of the city's Red Light district. A revitalization process beginning in 2011 saw the shuttering of many establishments and the opening of new ones in their place; brothels and run-down bars were replaced with new cafes, restaurants, and late-night haunts. The most iconic element of this makeover was, of course, the bubblegum paint that a section of the street received, leading to its nickname.

Around the same time, the sidewalk and street were leveled to create one contiguous pedestrian public space, and additional lighting, landscaping, and public art were added. In the heart of the bustling Cais da Sodré district of Lisbon, Pink Street’s central location next to Mercado da Ribiera, the Cais da Sodré bus and train station, and the waterfront walkways of the city make it easily accessible for residents and tourists alike by foot, bus, or train.

Late into the evenings, the street overflows with party-goers, many of whom are tourists, leading to some local resentment over the changes. As Pink Street continues to evolve, Lisbon will need to balance the increase in tourism traffic with the needs and wants of residents to ensure that the area works for all of its users.

All images by Gail Aguiar.