Lisbon is an outdoor museum with a stunning cityscape and architecture. As one of the oldest cities in the world, history comes alive among its seven hills and grand harbor. Historic walking tours are the best way to learn about Lisbon’s iconic landmarks, such as Square of Commerce, Rossa, Avenue of Liberty, Sao Jorge Castle, Belem and Jeronimos Monastery.
Lisbon’s History and Background
The Legend is that Lisbon was born between seven hills, like Rome. These seven hills create breathtaking views, overlooking the beautiful harbor at the mouth of the Tagus River. The dramatic orange suspension bridge is, also, in the harbor named after the date of the Carnation Revolution, 25 de Abril Bridge. It’s the longest suspension bridge in Europe and resembles San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge. In addition, the large Catholic monument, Sanctuary of Christ the King overlooks to the harbor. Lisbon’s Mediterranean climate has warm to hot, dry summers and mild, rainy winters.
Lisbon’s beautiful cityscape includes gorgeous parks, for example, the Monsanto Forest Park and Tagus Estuary Natural Reserve. In western Lisbon is the pristine Monsanto Forest Park, with 4 sq mi of urban park, one of the largest green spaces in Europe. Also, the Tagus Estuary Natural Reserve of the Tagus River is the largest wetland in Portugal. It’s biodiverse with wildlife, such as, birds, fish, mollusks and crustaceans.
Lisbon is rich and eclectic in architecture styles, such as, Gothic, Romanesque, Baroque, Manueline (Portuguese Late Gothic), Modern and Postmodern. Because of the 1755 Lisbon earthquake, most of the ancient architecture was destroyed. However, there still is plenty of gorgeous architecture, monuments and grandiose boulevards to be mesmerized.
Praca do Comercio or Commerce Square
This grand square is located near the Tagus river and was destroyed by the great 1755 Lisbon earthquake. Before the earthquake it was the location of the Royal Palace. However, once rebuilt, it became the main square of commerce. In its centre is the bronze statue, King Jose I on his horse, symbolically crushing snakes on his path. The square symmetry of gold buildings are filled with vendors, restaurants and offices. Also, the stunning Rua Augusta Arch is a triumphal arch that celebrates the reconstruction of Lisbon after the 1755 earthquake, opening to the bustling boulevard Rua Augusta.
Rossio or King Pedro IV Square – Historic Lisbon Walking Tours
This is another popular and beautiful square where tourists and native meet. Since the Middle Ages this square was the venue for historical events, such as, bullfights, revolts and celebrations, and even executions. In the middle of the square is the Column of King Pedro IV. There are historically significant cafes and stores in the square, for example, Café Nicola and Pastelaria Suica.
Located in Lisbon’s City Centre is the ruin of Convent of Our Lady of Mount Carmel. This breathtaking Gothic ruin stands eerily tall without a roof due to the 1755 earthquake.
Avenida da Liberdade or Avenue of Liberty
This prominent boulevard in central Lisbon is famous as one of the most expensive shopping streets in Europe. It’s 90-metre wide and 1100 m long, with ten lanes divided by pedestrian areas and gardens. The boulevard also is the venue for hotels, embassies and restaurants.
Sao Jorge Hill and Castle – Historic Lisbon Walking Tours
From one of the highest hills in Lisbon, the iconic San Jorge Castle looks out over the city. This is where Lisbon was first established. This stalwart fortress helped to protect Lisbon for years from wars. These fortifications were occupied by many, such as, Phoenicians, Carthaginians, Romans and Moors. Finally, the Portuguese did conquest in the 1147 Siege of Lisbon. Since then, the castle has been the Royal Palace, military barracks and now a national monument and museum.
Besides the history, there are many breathtaking viewpoints here to see the vast city below, with its dramatic harbor and the suspension bridge. Here, I had my epiphany that Lisbon delightfully reminded me of one of my favorite cities, San Francisco. For examples, both cities are very hilly with dramatic harbors and an orange suspension bridge. Also, I even witnessed San Francisco’s stereotypical fog in the harbor in Portugal. Overall, this view was the highlight of my experiences in Lisbon and consider it a must-see attraction for visitors.
Belem – The Tower, Discoveries Monument and Jeronimos Monastery
On the northern Tagus River sanctuary is the parish, Belem. Even more, this area is famous for being the area from which seafarers launched their expeditions. The Belem Tower is one of the most iconic symbols of Portugal. As a fortified lighthouse, it once guarded the entrance to the port on a little island of the Tagus. Another historic landmark here is the Discoveries Monument Sculpture on the northern bank of the Tagus. It symbolizes the Portuguese Age of Discovery during the 15th and 16th centuries, where ships departed for the Orient and India. Also, don’t miss out on the popular Pastieis de Belem, known for its delicious, mouthwatering custard tarts.
Another must-see attraction in Belem is the dramatic Jeronimos Monastery. Like the Belem Tower, it displays the Manueline-style architecture, also known as Portuguese Late Gothic. This ornate style has intricated sculptural themes, using maritime elements and objects discovered during expeditions carved in limestone. Also, the gardens and fountains outside the monastery are serene and lovely. Historically, the monks of the military-religious Order of Christ provided help for seafarers in transit.
Lisbon Museums
Lisbon is also known for its world class museums. For example, the National Museum of Ancient Art is of the largest art collections in the world and the National Coach Museum has the world’s larges collection of royal coaches and carriages. Also, noteworthy is the Museum of Lisbon, National Museum of Archeology and National Museum of Natural History & Science.
Overall, Historic Lisbon Walking Tours
This ancient city is one of my favorites in the world. It’s a fabulous pedestrian city with a vast labyrinth of boulevards, alleyways, gardens and hilltop panoramic views. Thus, whatever you do in this cultural paradise, wear some good walking shoes.
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