The vibrant, elegant and architecturally diverse capital of Portugal literally has something for everyone and is an absolute must see for any visitor to Portugal. Situated at the point where the River Tagus meets the Atlantic, it was built on seven hills and is thus a traveler’s delight of hidden treasures and stunning views. Whether you chose to walk its narrow cobbled streets or get around with a ride, or two, on one of its traditional funiculars, you will soon see why the early explorers chose this part of the country as the centre of the vast Portuguese empire.
The slopes of the seven hills are awash with churches, brightly coloured houses, restaurants, and bars to suit all tastes. Lisbon has an incredible history that has culminated to make it the diverse and modern city that it is today. There is evidence in existence that it was occupied well before the Roman era, but it was then that it was propelled into the semblance of a city, due to its geographical advantage of being close to the river and mountainous enough to protect itself against invasion.
But it could not protect itself forever and eventually the Moors conquered the city in the 8th century and changed its name from the Roman Felicita Julia Olisipo to Aschbouna. The Alfama district is an enchanting part of the city that possesses a distinctly Moorish atmosphere and is a tributary to the era.
Lisboa, photo by José Manuel
It was in the 12th century that the first king of Portugal, Afonso Henriques, captured the city and it was deemed the countries capital in 1255. Since this time it has grown and modernised, but has managed to maintain its grand charm and beauty. There is the grid-like downtown, Baixa, which lies to the west of Alfama, that was reconstructed after the devastating earthquake in 1755 and is on the list to join many of its Portuguese counterparts as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There is also the romantic and alluring Chiado that portrays all the debaucherous qualities of 19th century Lisbon. From here it is a short walk to Barrio Alto which is the place to be for contemporary bars and sensational live music. For music lovers who like something a little different, find one of the Fado houses in Alcantâra, Alfama or Madragoa for traditional Portuguese folk music.
Everywhere one looks there seems to be another church, museum or building to stop and marvel at in Lisbon and each is in a different style; from Romanesque to Manueline, Baroque to Gothic. Yet its new Vasco da Gama bridge showcases the fact that Lisbon continues to grow culturally and structurally as a city. So take your time wandering its cobbled streets and alley’s and enjoy getting lost in a truly unique city.
More information: visitportugal.com
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