Headless Body Found in Central Lisbon

Lisbon — In the faint dawn light of Wednesday, 30 July 2025, a passer-by raised the alarm after discovering the headless body of a man in Pátio do Salema, a narrow alley that backs onto the Coliseu de Lisboa, minutes from the bustling Rossio Square. Police were on the scene by 06:00; the victim’s head was not.

What we know so far

According to the Metropolitan Police (PSP), the first call came through at 06:40, reporting “a male corpse with clear signs of decapitation.” Detectives from the Polícia Judiciária’s homicide squad and forensic technicians quickly took charge, sealing off the alley and scouring nearby bins and rooftops for the missing head. No identification documents were found on the body, and investigators have yet to release an age range or nationality.

A crime scene in the heart of the city

Pátio do Salema is a cobbled cul-de-sac wedged between theatres, pastelarias, and hostels—an area that sees heavy foot traffic from commuters and tourists alike. Morning cafés were forced to shutter as officers erected blue tarpaulins and forensic tents. Some residents told The Portugal Post they were “shocked but not entirely surprised,” citing a recent uptick in night-time drug dealing and rough sleeping in the alley. The PSP would not confirm whether narcotics played any role.

The investigation

Inspector-Coordinator Artur Correia, speaking briefly to reporters, said officers are reviewing CCTV from surrounding businesses and transport hubs and will canvass hotels for missing-person reports filed by guests. He urged anyone who used the Restauradores Metro entrance between 05:00 and 06:30 to come forward. Police have not ruled out gang retaliation or a ritualistic killing, but stress that it is “too early for definitive lines of inquiry.”

City on edge

Mayor Carlos Moedas’ office issued a written statement expressing “deep concern” and pledging full municipal cooperation, while opposition councillors demanded additional night patrols in the historic centre. Local business association Baixa Dinâmica warned that sensational coverage could damage tourism at the height of Lisbon’s summer season.

How common is such violence?

Portugal remains one of the safest countries in Europe; the National Statistics Institute (INE) recorded 72 homicides nationwide in 2024, a slight drop from 74 in 2023. Decapitations are exceedingly rare and normally linked to domestic or drug-related murders that occur indoors, not on public streets.

Next steps

Forensic teams expect to complete a preliminary autopsy within 48 hours. In the meantime, officers will keep Pátio do Salema cordoned off until they finish a fingertip search for trace evidence. Anyone with information can call the PJ’s Lisbon anonymous tip-line on 808 200 800.

The Portugal Post will update this story as more details emerge.