Welcome to Lisbon, one of the oldest cities in Europe,
a hilly seaside metropolis full of charming neighborhoods
with a modern touch and rich history. We'll start out walk along Cais das Colunas or Ribeira das Naus
where you can admire the historic waterfront on Tagus River or stop at Café Martinho da Arcada, a favorite
among tourists and locals alike since 1782. It is a global city that plays an essential role
in the development of Portugal and the wider region. The city's architecture is a perfect mix of the old
and the new - with its historical towers, monuments, and churches alongside
modern infrastructure. Portuguese culture and cuisine are
visible throughout Lisbon's rolling hills and streets. Experience the melancholic allure of fado music
while getting a taste of authentic Portuguese cuisine. The story of Portugal's capital begins with its first settlers,
the Celts, in the 1st millennium BC, although the area was inhabited by Pre-Celtic tribes
long before that. Phoenicians later named the area Ulissipo, and the Greeks
and the Carthaginians eventually settled the land. By 205 BC, after winning the Second Punic War,
Romans occupied the area and renamed it Olissipo. However, the Kingdom of Suebi took control of the city
in 585 AD, following the fall of the Roman Empire. By 711 AD, the city fell under the reign of Islamic Moors
and was renamed al-Usbuma. Finally, in 1147, Alfonso I reclaimed the city
and turned it into Portugal's naval base. It eventually became an important
international port by the 15th century. Lisbon was also the starting point of most
of Portugal's expeditions during the Age of Discovery, where explorers like Vasco da Gama embarked
on the quest for new territories across the globe. Commerce Square (Praça do Comércio) is
an important witness to the Age of Discovery. Overlooking the Tagus River, the square served
as a transportation and commercial hub. Today, it features seats of some of the most important
Portuguese state departments, including the Ministries of Finances, Internal Administration,
Agriculture, and Maritime Affairs. Perhaps one of the most defining moments for Lisbon was the Great
Earthquake of 1755, where the majority of the city was devastated. Lisbon was quickly rebuilt and continued
its development throughout the centuries. One of the most famous attractions in the square
is Arco da Rua August, a stone, triumphal arch-like, historical building commemorating the city's
reconstruction after the earthquake in 1755. Climb the arch to enjoy spectacular
views of the square and the city. The arch entrance reveals Lisbon's main pedestrian area,
Rua Augusta, a bustling street full of shops and restaurants. Today, Lisbon is home to around
three million people (metro area). Movement in the nation's capital is mainly centered around
the city's steep hills and on the banks of the Tagus river. Tourists and locals like to get around Lisbon
using trams and funiculars, evoking the charm and
nostalgia of the olden days. Lisbon's impressive bridges facilitate transportation
and serve as reminders of just how far the city has come. We'll see some of these impressive bridges
and unique transportation systems later on this tour. Rossio Square (Praça de D. Pedro IV) has been one
of the main squares in Lisbon since the Middle Ages. The square was a popular place for celebrations,
demonstrations, farmer's markets, and even bullfights
and public executions. Sit down in one of many cafes or restaurants,
like the historic Café Nicola, and admire traditional Portuguese pavement style (calçada) and
the plaza's baroque fountains and neoclassical architecture. The Santa Justa Lift (also called Carmo Lift)
is a tourist destination very much unique to Lisbon. Since the lift can only carry 20 people at a time,
expect it to get crowded really fast. The iron tower structure connects downtown Baixa
to Chiado, a district up on the hill. The lift has been a part of the city's
public transportation since 1902. Santa Justa Elevator is now mainly
used by tourists looking for a new way to enjoy Lisbon's skyline
at its observation deck. Rua Garrett is a charming historic street, remaining
a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. Whether you're browsing the shelves of a cozy
bookstore or enjoying a cup of coffee at an outdoor café, Rua Garrett is sure to offer
something for everyone. Get a taste of Lisbon's nightlife and street
party scene at Pink Street (Rua Nova do Carvalhoa). See how this small pedestrian street
transforms itself at night, just in time for the city revelers to
drink and dance the night away. Mercado da Ribeira is one of Lisbon's oldest
markets that has been around since the 13th century. Since the early beginning, the market
has undergone several improvements in its infrastructure. The market hall, which features iron interiors
and a large oriental dome, was opened in 1882. The area is divided into the traditional market
that sells fresh produce and a modern food hall with more than 30 stalls and bars serving top-notch
Portuguese cuisine and other famous world cuisines. In 2014, the Time Out Market took over
the food hall of Mercado da Ribeira. The ruins of Carmo Convent, located at a historic
Largo do Carmo square was built in the 14th century. Carmo Convent used to be the largest
church in the capital but the Great Earthquake of 1755 destroyed
the building, along with much of the city. Today, visitors can admire its grand arches and the
carvings on the walls that have survived for centuries. Lisbon came up with several ingenious
transportation solutions (tramways, funiculars, and lifts) to help locals and visitors tackle Lisbon's steep hills
and enjoy its magnificent sights. Trams are a popular way to ger around the city,
nowadays especially amongst tourists. These small nostalgic streetcars have been
a part of Lisbon’s streets since 1901. Ride the renowned tram number 28 that passes
through the old city and other famous parts of Lisbon. By the way, did you know that before 1901 trams
ran as a horsecar line, but due to Lisbon's steep slopes, the horses were eventually replaced by a more
efficient cable-driven transport. Funiculars are a popular way to get around the capital,
especially among tourists. Elevador da Glória passes through
Calçada da Glória famous for its colorful street art. Glória funiculars are attached by cables
that ascend and descend simultaneously, acting as a counterweight
for one another. Lisbon offers several
amazing viewing platforms. Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara is one of the best places
to enjoy a panoramic view of Lisbon. From here you can see some of the city's most
iconic landmarks, including the castle and the river. If you're looking for a break from the hustle and bustle
of the city, Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara is the perfect place to relax
and take in the view. Restauradores Square, located in the heart of the city,
is home to a number of historic landmarks, including the National Monument
to the Restorers. The square gets its name from the Portuguese
word for "restorer," which refers to those who fought to regain independence
from Spanish rule in the early 17th century. Today, Restauradores Square is a thriving hub of activity,
with a wide variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes. Lisbon is well known for its
many murals and graffiti. The most famous of these is the
Mural Graffiti Fado Vadio. This massive mural covers an entire building and depicts a traditional Portuguese fado. It has become a symbol of Lisbon's culture and history,
and a popular tourist destination. Castelo de S. Jorge, initially surrounded by
a wall to form a citadel, is now an iconic historical complex that played an essential role
in the history of Lisbon. The fortification dates back to the 1st century AD
and was occupied by different civilizations (Phoenicians, Carthaginians, Romans, and lastly, Moors);
however, the area was inhabited long before. The site was eventually defeated by the Portuguese military action
in the 1147 Siege of Lisbon. In the 13th century, the castle became
a fortified residence for the kings. Today, visitors can enjoy a walk-through of
Castelo de S. Jorge's expansive grounds that include: (1) The ruins of the royal palace; (2) Excavated site with remains of Ancient
and Medieval Past Permanent Exhibition with objects found
in the archaeological area; (3) Several platforms with amazing panoramic views
of the city and many other interesting areas. Don't skip peacocks, the unofficial
castle residents roaming around the complex. The views from Miradouro das Portas do Sol
in Lisbon are simply breathtaking. From this vantage point, you can
see the entire city stretched out before you. The buildings seem to glow in the sunlight,
and the river twinkles in the distance. If you're lucky enough to catch a sunset here,
you'll be treated to a truly magical experience. The narrow, winding streets of Alfama district date
back to medieval times, and the Moorish influence can still be seen in the architecture. The district is also home to many
of Lisbon's most important landmarks, such as the Cathedral of Santa Maria Maior
and the Castle of Sao Jorge. Today, the Alfama is a vibrant and multicultural neighbourhood,
known for its lively atmosphere and colourful tiles. It is also a popular tourist destination, as it offers
a unique glimpse into Lisbon's past. Explore Alfama and other districts with
traditional taverns and restaurants, some even offering live fado,
a unique genre of music that originated in Lisbon. The Fado Museum in Lisbon is devoted to the history
and culture of this uniquely Portuguese form of music. The museum's collection includes instruments,
photographs, and handwritten lyrics, as well as a library with a wide selection
of books on fado. The museum also hosts occasional
concerts and other events. The Padrão dos Descobrimentos celebrates the history
of Portuguese exploration and discovery, and is inscribed with the names of some of the most notable
explorers, navigators, and cartographers. The monument pays tribute to the nation’s
maritime heritage. Let’s explore Belem District,
located on the banks of the River. Belém Tower, declared as UNESCO World Heritage Site,
is one of the most recognizable tourist attractions in Lisbon. Built in the 16th century, it is considered the gateway to the nation's
capital, strategically located at the mouth of the Tagus River. The tower prominently displayed
the best of the Portuguese Manueline style. It was initially built as a fort to protect the city from
incoming raids along the river. The tower is also a symbol of Europe's
Age of Exploration (Age of Discovery), a period in the 15th and 16th centuries where European nations
like Portugal began exploring and conquering the world. Did you know? The tower
once stood on an island, but the earthquake of 1755 shifted
the river's course, moving the island closer to land. Construction of this massive monastery and
a church for the Order of Saint Jerome began in 1501 but was not completed
for another 100 years. Jerónimos Monastery (Hieronymites Monastery) replaced the old church
used by monks providing assistance to mariners in transit. The monastery is a prime example of Manueline
architectural style from the 16th century, incorporating richly decorated maritime elements carved in limestone
discovered on expeditions of Vasco da Gama and Pedro Álvares Cabral. Stroll along the two-story cloisters and the Church of Santa Maria,
and it will be easy to understand why Hieronymites Monastery is considered a symbol of Portugal's
immense wealth during the Age of Discoveries. Jerónimos Monastery, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site,
is also a burial place of King Manuel I, and other prominent figures,
like the famous Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama. Did you know that the recipe for the world-renewed
Portuguese custard tarts known as pastéis de Nata (pastéis de Belém)
was created by monks here? Waterfront Promenade Belem offers a fantastic view towards
the beautiful Ponte 25 de Abril bridge a.k.a. the Golden Gate of Lisbon. Named after the Carnation Revolution in 1974,
Ponte 25 de Abril, constructed in 1966, connects Lisbon
to Almada Municipality. Enjoy its observation deck, providing
a magnificent view of the bridge and the city. Visit the rest of the Pilar 7 Bridge Experience interactive museum
to learn more about the construction of this impressive bridge. Did you know that Ponte 25 de Abril
was made by the same company as the Golden Gate bridge
hence the resemblance in color and appearance? MAAT (Museum of Art, Architecture, and Technology) is Lisbon's
newest addition among the city's most valued destinations. Opened in 2016, the MAAT is dedicated to featuring
exhibitions in art, architecture, and technology to foster critical discourse
and creative practice. Its distinct architecture stands out as it is located
on the banks of the river. Instead of permanent collections, visitors can explore
temporary exhibits or Perspectives from 250 contemporary
Portuguese artists. Oceanário de Lisboa is the largest
indoor aquarium in Europe. The aquarium is home to over 16,000 marine animals
and plants from 450 different species, including the sunfish, one of the heaviest
bony fish in the world. Walk around this unique aquarium
and experience four different natural habitats and a large tank with glass panel windows strategically placed in
various aquarium parts, creating a unique visual experience. Oceanário de Lisboa is one of the landmarks found in
Parque das Nações, the former site of Expo '98 with stunning views. While in the Expo district, hop on the cable car
to get a nice view of the entire avant-garde district and admire the majestic Vasco da Gama bridge,
the largest bridge in Europe, or the beautiful Torre Vasco da Gama,
the tallest structure in Lisbon.
