On the marble plaque, which is over 300 years old, is the following message: "Anno 1686. His Majesty orders that coaches, carriages (ancient carriage, with two wheels and a single seat), and sedan chairs that come from the entrance (beginning of the street) of Salvador to retreat to the same part."

This means that anyone coming from above lost priority over anyone coming up the street. At the time, this was the best way to avoid causing problems among the citizens who circulated there, according to a report by NM.

It may seem excessive, but at that time traffic problems already existed in the capital's narrowest streets. This led to rules being created, similar to the current Highway Code.

The historical importance of this signage is clear, as it is over 300 years old. This sign, in addition to being the oldest traffic sign in Portugal, is also the oldest sign in the world.