|
|
 |
Top Attractions in Lisbon |
Mosteiro dos Jerónimos
Regarded as Lisbon’s most important landmark, the
construction of this stunning monastery began in 1502 and was completed before
the end of the century. The Mosteiro dos Jerónimos thankfully managed to
survive the great earthquake in 1755, unlike most of the city. It was
constructed by Manuel I during the affluent years following the discovery
of the seaway to India and it is the finest example of Manuel-architecture
in Lisbon. The magnificent two-storey monastery is garland ornamented with
stone shelves, sea monsters and other maritime symbols. It was traditional
for Portuguese seafarers to pray in the chapel before their departure to
the unknown.
Website: Mosteiro dos Jeronimos
The National Tile Musueum (Museu Nacional do Azulejo)
The National Tile Museum houses an amazing collection of decorative
tiles both foreign and Portuguese dating from the 15th century to present.
Website: National Tile Museum
Castelo de São Jorge (São Jorge Castle)
Inhabited since Phoenician times, the site of this castle has witnessed
countless visitors from the Romans to the Moors. This ruined 13th-century
palace also served as the principal palace of Portuguese kings for more
than 300 years. The 360 degree view of Lisbon and its environs from the
castle ramparts is simply stunning.
Museu da Marinha (Maritime Museum)
King Luís founded the Maritime Museum on July 22nd 1863. It is now
regarded as one of the most important maritime museums in Europe. It
features over 17,000 items including a massive photographic archive and
1,500 archives of ships’ plans and drawings. You cannot miss three
anchors from Columbus’s Niña at the entrance to the museum and there
are some fascinating displays and models based on the Portuguese
discoveries.
Website: Maritime Museum
The Alfama District
The Alfama district is located in the old town of Lisbon and is still
wonderfully picturesque with narrow winding streets and colourful
overhanging buildings. Unfortunately, none of the Moorish buildings
remain due to the earthquake of 1755 but the layout of the streets
gives you a good idea of what it might have been like. Take a stroll
around the area and soak up the atmosphere.
The Botanical Gardens Jardim Botanico (Estufa Fria)
The Botanical Gardens are located in Parque Eduardo VII and are a real delight.
The unusual ‘cold greenhouse’ or Estufa Fria houses an amazing collection
of tropical plants set in the midst of mock waterfalls and grottoes. There is also a
‘hothouse’ or Estufa Quente in the garden which contains an enormous
collection of arid desert flora.
The Belém Tower (Torre de Belém)
The Belém Tower is located on the banks of the Tagus River. Built in 1521 as a
monument to the Portuguese discoveries and as a lookout tower, it resembles a
miniature castle. Originally, the tower stood farther out in the river but after
centuries of silting the riverbanks have merged with the tower. It incorporates
many motifs of maritime life.
The Sé Cathedral
Lisbon's cathedral, (the Sé) was built by Portugal’s first king, Dom
Afonso Henriques (1109-1185). It was damaged extensively during the great
earthquake of 1755 and rebuilt in an earlier style, and is a mixture of
Gothic and Romanesque styles. Parts of the twin towers, the rose window,
the naves, and the vestry are part of the original 13th-century building.
The gothic cloister was a 14th century addition and is decorated in tiles
depicting the Song of Solomon. The chapel of St. Vincent was built in the
16th century while the main chapel was built in the 17th century.
The Vasco da Gama Aquarium
Portugal’s largest aquarium was opened in 1898 during the Expo events
in Lisbon. It houses more than 200 species. There are exhibitions of aquatic life
from all over the world as well as a special exhibition on invertebrates from the
Portuguese coastline. There are also many educational exhibits detailing current
environmental issues and explaining the workings of the world’s oceans.
The Bairro Alto District
The Bairro Alto, meaning the Upper City, is the trendiest area of Lisbon.
Fortunately many of its buildings survived the 1755 earthquake, and today the narrow
cobblestone streets and alleys are lined with ancient buildings making it a
fascinating place to stroll during the day. The area is intensely colorful and
full of life. The Bairro Alto is probably best experienced at night, being home
to some of the best ‘’fado’’ (traditional Portuguese music)
cafés in Lisbon, as well as a host of diverse bars discos and restaurants.
Website: Bairro Alto
|
|
|
del.icio.us
Digg it
Yahoo MyWeb
Stumble It!
