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Lisbon,
the capital of Portugal since its conquest from the Moors in
1147, is a legendary city with over 20 centuries of
History, once the cradle of world exploration and
geographical discoveries. Boasting springtime temperatures during the winter
and cool summers freshened by a breeze blowing in from the
Atlantic, it is city which fascinates and draws tourists in.
Full of mystery and enchantment it awakens the senses with
beauty of its old palaces, narrow streets, and historic
buildings. Today Lisbon has re-invented itself,
becoming a very fashionable and trendy destination, and it invites the visitor to
explore and discover the irresistible charm of its own city. The
old village of Alfama, encrusted upon steep hills, the castle
complex, the belle époque trams and cafes, the scent of the sea,
the flowers and delicious food which permeate the streets. A true
pleasure to discover.
Places to visit:
Belém
Belém is linked to Portugal's Golden Age of Discoveries as
the site where the famous navigators set sail to discover
the world. Today it is a spacious green suburb with many
gardens, parks and monuments that are well worth a visit.
Amongst Belém's attractions are the Jerónimos Monastery, the
Monument to the Discoveries, the Torre de Belém, the Belém
Cultural Centre and Rua Vieira Portuense.
Alfama,
Castelo and Mouraria
The Alfama is one of the oldest quarters in Lisboa. Since it
largely survived the earthquake of 1755, the area still
retains much of its original layout.
Adjacent to the Alfama are the likewise old quarters of
Castelo and Mouraria, on the western and northern slopes of
the hill that is crowned by St. George's Castle. Every year
in June, the streets of all three quarters come alive with
the feasts in honour of the popular saints. The Graça
quarter and the churches of São Vicente de Fora and Santa
Engrácia are within walking distance of this area.
Bairro Alto, Chiado and Bica
Laid out in the 16th century, the Bairro Alto (literally "high
quarter") is one of the most picturesque quarters in the
city. Its architecture, traditional shops, restaurants, bars
and design and fashion stores give it a unique flair. It is
also a popular meeting place for all nightlife lovers.
The Chiado is an elegant shopping district. At the end of
the 19th century, it became a fashionable meeting place for
intellectuals such as Fernando Pessoa, Almada Negreiros and
Eça de Queiroz. Their most famous haunt was the café "A
Brasileira", which is still today favoured by the city's art
students. The Bica quarter lies adjacent to the Bairro Alto
and Chiado. In addition to its typical streets and houses,
it is particularly renowned for its funicular lift, the
Ascensor da Bica, built in 1892. |
