What is Love?

It’s one of the oldest questions we ask — and one of the most urgent today.

In a world shaped by rapid technological change, political tension, economic uncertainty, and increasing social fragmentation, love is no longer just a personal emotion. It’s a force that influences how we design systems, build communities, and imagine the future.

From neuroscience to philosophy, we’re beginning to understand love not as something abstract, but as something deeply structural. A biological need for connection. A social glue that holds societies together. A driver of empathy, cooperation, and resilience in times of change.

At TEDxMarvila 2026, we explore love not only in relationships, but in leadership, in cities, in migration, in creativity, and in the invisible systems that shape how we live.

 

What does it mean to build with care in an economy driven by speed?

What role does love play in bridging cultures, generations, and identities?

And how might our understanding of love redefine the way we lead, create, and coexist?

Our speakers bring perspectives that challenge, expand, and reframe — from science and technology to art, philosophy, and human experience. Each talk offers a new lens. Each moment invites reflection, and perhaps, transformation.

Because love is not only something we feel.

It’s something we practice.

Something we design.

Something we choose.

Join us on May 24th at Pátio da Galé, in the heart of Lisbon, for a day of ideas, connection, and shared humanity.

We’d love to have you there.

Pátio da Galé

TEDxMarvila 2026 will take place at Pátio da Galé, one of Lisbon’s most historic and prestigious venues, located in the iconic Praça do Comércio. Once part of the royal Ribeira Palace, this space has long been at the center of the city’s cultural and political life. Today, it offers a powerful setting where Lisbon’s rich history meets the creative energy and forward-thinking spirit of TEDxMarvila, connecting past and future in one shared experience.

Getting There

Pátio da Galé is centrally located in Praça do Comércio and is easily accessible by public transport.

Metro
Station: Terreiro do Paço
Line: Blue Line (Linha Azul)

Tram
Stop: Praça do Comércio
Line: 15E

Bus
Stop: Praça do Comércio
Lines: 711, 728, 706, 735, 760, 781, 782

Train
Cais do Sodré — 10-minute walk
Rossio — 10–12 minute walk

Parking

Parque de Estacionamento Praça do Comércio (Terreiro do Paço)
Closest option, located directly beneath the square.

Parque de Estacionamento Saba Ribeira (Cais do Sodré)
Rua Dom Luís I, 1200-109 Lisboa

Parque de Estacionamento Praça Luís de Camões
Praça Luís de Camões, 1200-243 Lisboa

Parque de Estacionamento Baixa-Chiado (Empark)
Rua Ivens, 42, 1200-227 Lisboa

FAQ

When and where is TEDxMarvila 2026?

The event takes place on Sunday, May 24th 2026, from 10:00 to 19:00, at Patio da Gale, Praca do Comercio 10–14, Lisbon.

All tickets include full access to the talks, experiences, and partner hub. VIP Networking tickets also include lunch, drinks, and access to an exclusive networking lounge. For other tickets, food and drinks will be available for purchase on-site. For full details, please visit the Tickets page.

All talks and communications are in English, as TEDxMarvila is Lisbon’s English-language TEDx event, welcoming a diverse and international audience. To make the experience more accessible, instant Portuguese translation will be available via a mobile app, powered by our technology partner Stenomatic.

Pátio da Galé is wheelchair-accessible. If you have specific accessibility needs, please reach out via the Contact page — we’ll do our best to make sure you feel welcome and comfortable.

Pátio da Galé is located at Praça do Comércio, right in the heart of Lisbon. You can reach it by metro (Terreiro do Paço station, blue line), tram (15E/25E), bus, or on foot. Limited parking is available nearby.

Yes — food and drinks will be available for purchase on-site at the Market throughout the day, and the schedule includes a dedicated lunch break. Complimentary coffee by Delta Cafés and water by Culligan will be available throughout the event. If you have a VIP Networking ticket, lunch and drinks are also included.

Please refer to the terms and conditions on our ticketing platform for the full refund policy.

Yes! As with all TEDx events, the talks will be recorded and published on the TEDx YouTube channel after the event — so the ideas keep spreading.