A Glimpse of Lisbon

Quick…what is the capital of Portugal?

Of course, it is Lisbon.

Welcome to Lisboa (that’s Portuguese for Lisbon)

So…in no particular order, what are our Lisbon memories?

• A quietly friendly city. As in most European cities we have visited, you quickly feel at ease with the relaxed yet vibrant pace of life here.
• Traffic can be anything but relaxing/friendlyDriving in on the main highways you travel great distances in tunnels.Exits from the tunnels are clearly marked but you better know which exit you want to emerge from! (But I guess that would be true when you first visit any city, wouldn’t it.)
• Beautiful tile work   (Hint: Click on any photo to enlarge it.)

Large murals created with tiles in public spaces, and

lovely tiled designs on residences and places of business.

• Modern buildings preserve original facade

The old and new blend together perfectly don’t they.

(Hint: click on the photo for a better view of what I am talking about.)

• Prime Minister’s residence is only used for official functions
• Large squares with towering monuments commemorating events and/or honouring famous citizens. For example…

Monument to the Restorers (Monumento aos Restauradores)

Located in Restauradores Square, this obelisk remembers the Portuguese Restoration War. (When I first saw the name on a map I thought it was going to be a square filled with restaurants!) 

Rossio Square (officially Dom Pedro IV Square)

The tall statue is of Pedro IV, King of Portugal and Brazil’s first emperor.

• Triumphal Arch in Comercio Square (remember…click photo)

The carvings on top of the arch represent  Glory, Valour and Genius. While this may seem a bit pretentious at first, knowing that the arch was built as part of the restoration of Lisbon after the devastating earthquake and tsunami of 1755 puts the names into perspective.

Aside: The arch is also know as the Avendia de Liberdade arch as it leads to Liberdade Avenue.

• Santa Justa Elevator

Unique, isn’t it.

• Saint George’s Castle  (Sao Jorge Castle) (remember, Lisbon is hilly!)

• Funiculars help climb some of the hills.

• Chocolate is king

• And lastly…(Perhaps this one should have been number one!)

Portugal’s “national dessert”… custard tarts

Delicious!

See more of Lisbon and Portugal, click  here

and/or

Visit other countries, click here

Happy travels!