At the entrance, a sign with the word “Cabelleireiro” (hairdresser) with old Portuguese spelling, shows you’re in the right place. For some, “Barbearia Campos” Est. 1886, is one of the oldest barber shops in Europe. As you step inside, the place looks like a living museum and hasn’t changed much since its early years. It’s a great starting point to feel the pulse of Lisbon.
There’s the traditional comfortable wooden chairs at the entrance and a board on the wall with all types of beard and haircuts that were trendy back in the old days. At the other corner, the old ironing machine and a board with pictures of important figures that have been to this place: Kings, politicians and artists: Ramalho Ortigão, Eça de Queiroz, Humberto II of Italy, just to mention a few.
Back in the 1920s men began to wear their hair in ways popularized by movie stars like Rudolph Valentino. Hair was cut short and they used pomade, creams and tonics to keep their hair in place. You can still ask for a vintage haircut or a proper shave, as they master the art of straight razor shaving.
Barbearia Campos has always been the favorite for famous figures due to its high quality services. Cut your hair in a vintage style, get a real straight razor shave, buy a suit and man up. Now you can walk on the old streets of Lisbon like Don Draper from the Mad Men series!