The best attractions of Lisbon with photos and descriptions. What to see in Lisbon? Main attractions of Lisbon
If you come to Lisbon with children, then do something nice for them - visit the local zoo. We assure you that your delight will be no less than childish.
Lisbon Zoo is, if not the largest, then one of the best in Europe. A variety of exotic animals live here: giraffes, hippos, rhinoceroses, crocodiles, camels, and various types of monkeys. They are all beautiful, well-groomed and do not evoke an unpleasant feeling of pity, as sometimes happens. Here you are not the king of nature - here is the dominance of wild nature, which simply allows you to become part of its life for a while.
Decorated peacocks stride along the paths of the park together with visitors, sometimes showing off their bright tail spread out into a fan. However, this is typical for many European menageries, the main principle of which is the availability of animals. It is precisely in order to get to know them better that people come here. The giraffe at the Lisbon Zoo is fenced off from the public by a tiny fence, through which the animal occasionally leans in the hope of chewing on fresh lawn or the hat of an unwary tourist. Only the wildest and most unbridled have significant barriers. Other animals are free to roam around the area.
A ride on a cable car over enclosures with hippos, tigers and lions makes a fantastic impression - a little scary, but very interesting. Special mention must be made about the dolphinarium - the excellent work of the trainers and their wonderful students always delights the audience.
Triumphal Arch
The Arc de Triomphe was built during the reconstruction of Lisbon after the great earthquake of 1755. Although construction began this year, it was completed only in 1873. It is believed that the Portuguese were inspired to build the arch by French architecture.
It was designed by Verissimo da Costa, installing on it a clock and allegorical figures of Glory, Ingenuity and Courage, as well as statues of real people: Viritaus, Nuno Alvares Pereira, Vasco da Gama and the Marquis of Pombal.
However, the design of the arch was carried out by several sculptors at once, who sought to prove to everyone that the people of Lisbon would still rebuild their city, no matter how many earthquakes happened.
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Cathedral
Se Cathedral is the oldest church in Lisbon, which has long become a real symbol, decoration and source of pride for the residents of the capital of Portugal. To this day, the cathedral has been preserved almost in its original form, with minor alterations that did not at all affect the appearance of the building.
According to one hypothesis, the predecessor of the modern cathedral was a Roman temple, which, after being conquered by the Visigoths in the 4th-5th centuries, was converted into a Christian church. Then, when the Iberian Peninsula fell under the expansion of the Arabs, the church was destroyed and a mosque was erected in its place. In this form, the building existed until 1147, when Christian knights liberated the city. And by 1150, a grandiose cathedral was erected on the foundations of the destroyed mosque, its appearance rather reminiscent of an impregnable fortress.
During the famous destructive earthquake of 1755, the cathedral was damaged, but was not destroyed, and it was soon restored. Decorative elements in the Baroque, Rococo and Neoclassical styles appeared in the decoration of the cathedral. Today, Lisbon Cathedral is a monumental building with three portals, a transept, a main chapel and two towers framing the main façade.
The official opening of the Lisbon metro took place at the end of December 1959. There were only two lines working then. Four years later, the third line was connected, and in 1998, the fourth line. Each of them is not only marked with a certain color, but also has its own symbol. The blue one has a seagull, the yellow one has a sunflower flower, the green one has a sailboat and the red one has a compass that points to the east.
Each metro station is decorated in its own style. These are original design ideas in the form of drawings, graffiti, and panels on the walls. They are so unique that they can easily be classified as modern art. There are mosaics illustrating the history of Portugal, abstraction on the walls, neo-conceptualism, and arthouse tiles. Among other things, original statues are installed at the stations.
For the convenience of metro visitors, a digital display is installed at each station, which displays announcements in two languages: Portuguese and English.
Museum of Ceramics
The Ceramics Museum, located in the Portuguese city of Caldas da Rainha, was founded in 1983 in the estate of Viscount Sacawena, which the state acquired specifically for this purpose in 1981. The basis of the collection was the private collection of the viscounts of the city of Sakawen and ceramic products made at factories in the country.
The museum's exhibitions introduce visitors to ceramic products from the 17th to 20th centuries. Among the exhibits you can see products from the large ceramic factory Fabrica do Rato, which operated in the city in the 18th century, centers of ceramic production in Portugal, the factories of Bandeira, Darca, Santana and works of ceramic art from other countries. Of particular interest are 1,200 tiles from the 16th – 20th centuries, original ceramic products by modern masters, clay sculptures and pottery products. The main attraction of the museum is the collection of works by local master Rafael Bordalo Pinheiro.
St. George's Castle
The Castle of St. George is visible from afar - after all, it is built on the highest point of Lisbon. Tradition says that this very place should be considered the cradle of the capital of Portugal. According to the research of historians, people lived in this area long before the arrival of the Roman conquerors.
A fortress was built on the hill. Its task was to protect the Tagus River and surrounding lands from the attacks of conquerors. Over the many centuries of its existence, the castle, which remembers the West Goths, the Moors, and the young Spanish kingdoms of the Reconquista, has undergone reconstruction more than once. In general terms, it acquired its modern appearance after restoration work that was carried out here in the 20th century.
The area occupied by the Castle of St. George is 6000 sq.m. Several towers and observation points, as well as a dry moat, have been preserved in this area. There are also two parks there. They are separated from one another by a wall in which there is a passage. From the ramparts of the old fortress there is a unique panorama of the Tagus River and the ancient part of Lisbon.
Palace of Queluz
The Queluz Palace is a magnificent architectural monument worthy of sincere admiration. Built by King Pedro III as a gift to his wife, Queen Maria I, the Queluz Palace impresses with its luxurious forms. Construction of the palace lasted several years - from 1742 to 1767, and a lush garden with fountains and statues was laid out around it. The construction of a new palace for King Pedro III and his bride Maria I was headed by the court architect Mateus Vicente de Oliveira, who created an amazingly beautiful creation, which is considered to be perhaps the last striking example of the Rococo style.
The Queluz Palace makes a great impression on visitors. Now everyone can admire the exquisite Throne Hall, in which magnificent balls and ceremonial banquets were held several centuries ago. Huge mirrors, beautiful crystal chandeliers and gold-plated sculptures add special splendor. This is followed by the music hall, where operas and concerts were performed by the royal orchestra. The ceiling of the royal bedroom is made in the shape of a dome and decorated with frescoes with scenes from Don Quixote, and the floor is made of exotic wood. The most solemn room is the room for ambassadors - the floor here is made of marble slabs, and the ceiling depicts paintings from the life of the royal family.
The palace is surrounded by a lush garden and park, which used to host knightly tournaments, concerts, fireworks and entertainment events for royal guests.
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Maritime Museum
The Maritime Museum in Lisbon is one of the largest in Europe and clearly demonstrates the superiority of the Portuguese in everything related to the sea. It contains items characterizing the history of navigation, items from the era of the Great Geographical Discoveries and models of historical ships.
The Maritime Museum was founded on June 22, 1863 by King Luis of Portugal and is located near the Jeronimos Monastery. For many years now, this museum has been a source of delight and admiration for the glorious maritime history of Portugal. At the very beginning, the museum collection was located in the premises of the former maritime school and the palace of Count Farrobo. Over time, it was decided to move the exhibits to the historical district of Belém. This move was a real act of symbolism, because it was from the harbor of Belem that Vasco da Gama's caravels set off in search of a sea route to India. The collection includes about 17 thousand exhibits. Among them there is a wooden figurine of the Archangel Raphael, who traveled to India with Vasco da Gama on his ship. The exhibition includes navigational instruments, cannons, nautical charts of the 16th century, a globe from 1645, and reconstructed interiors of the cabins in which royalty - Queen Elizabeth II of Great Britain and Kaiser Wilhelm II of Germany - traveled.
The most popular attractions in Lisbon with descriptions and photographs for every taste. Choose the best places to visit famous places in Lisbon on our website.
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Lisbon is one of the most distant European capitals from our country, free from prejudices, which gave the world the great Vasco da Gama and Ferdinand Magellan. For those planning to visit this beautiful city in the near future, we recommend that you read our review of the most popular attractions in Lisbon.
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The capital of Portugal is one of the most homogeneous European cities from an architectural point of view. This is explained by the fact that almost all of Lisbon’s attractions were restored at the end of the 18th century, after the city experienced a severe earthquake. Today they form a single ensemble, which cannot be imagined without the Aguash Librish aqueduct.
It has long been considered one of the symbols of tourist Lisbon. The structure, built at the beginning of the 18th century, served as a real salvation for the population of the Portuguese capital. With its help, they solved one of the most important urban problems - local residents have suffered from a lack of drinking water since time immemorial. By the way, despite the fact that since the commissioning of Aguash Librish to the present day a lot of water has passed under the bridge, literally and figuratively, it still contributes to the city’s water supply system.
The aqueduct was built using the latest achievements of scientific and technological progress of that time. Its length is several dozen kilometers, but tourists are only interested in one section, running along the Alcantara Valley. It is on this territory that the legendary 30 arches are located, which today have become the architectural heritage of Portugal.
For a long time, it was possible to look at the aqueduct only from afar - its importance was too great and tourists were not allowed onto the wall itself. However, it is now possible to walk along it again. There is also great interest in the structure due to the fact that it miraculously survived the earthquake of 1755.
The Aguas Librish aqueduct is located at Calcada Quintinha street, building 6. You can get to it through the noticeable Jardim do Aqueduto park. Visiting hours are from 10-00 to 17-00; the aqueduct is closed on Sunday, Monday, and on public holidays. The entrance fee is purely symbolic - 2 euros.
Palace of Queluz
The Queluz Palace tops the ranking of “royal” attractions in Lisbon. Indeed, for many years Portuguese monarchs lived within its walls. Today, the luxurious residence is no longer in the public domain. Built in the 18th century, the Queluz Palace was long the summer residence of Portuguese kings. They not only relaxed here, but also had fun to the fullest - legends about Queluz receptions and balls once excited the whole of Europe.
Today, everyone can enjoy the former splendor - almost all the halls, perfectly preserved to this day, are available for inspection. Even the fire that the palace had to survive did not affect its splendor - the restorers carefully and reverently restored every detail of the external and internal decoration.
Portuguese kings not only loved luxury, but also appreciated art. In almost every hall of the palace, in addition to the interiors, you can look at paintings by famous and not so famous artists, as well as numerous statues.
In addition to the palace, a beautiful park deserves attention. To this day, like many years ago, all the bushes here are carefully trimmed and the flower beds are fragrant. Fountains and fountains complete the picture. At the end of the walk, you can sit in one of the gazebos or, if you’re lucky, attend a concert of live instrumental music. The Queluz Palace is located 12 kilometers from Lisbon and can be reached by train or bus.
In any case, you need to get off at the Queluz stop. The doors are open to visitors from 9-00 to 19-00; the sale of entrance tickets is suspended an hour before the end of work. The cost of visiting is 10 euros for adults and 8.5 for children. For elderly people over 65 years of age, there is also a discount of 1.5 euros.
Mafra Palace
Even among the luxurious attractions of Lisbon, its magnificent palaces and majestic castles, Mafra Palace stands out. The construction was planned on a grand scale and to this day the complex amazes with its scale. The palace was built in the 18th century, and not just like that, but on occasion. In the royal family, John V and his beloved wife Anne of Austria, after several years of waiting, finally had their first child! Naturally, this event was celebrated on a grand scale. To this day, Mafra remains one of the largest and most luxurious palaces not only in Portugal, but throughout Europe.
In total, it consists of 1,200 halls and rooms, which in area can be compared with ten full-sized football fields. In addition to the usual premises, the complex includes a small monastery, a basilica, two romantic towers with bell towers on top, and a library. The collection of the latter amazes even seasoned art critics, let alone ordinary tourists. If you're lucky, during the tour you can not only learn about the palace, but also hear the legendary ringing made by more than a hundred bells sounding simultaneously.
Mafra Palace is located in the suburb of Lisbon of the same name. Getting to it is problematic - public transport does not go to this place. You will have to rent a car or, which is much easier, join an organized group. Trips are offered by almost all travel agencies in Lisbon. The palace is closed on Tuesdays and public holidays. The rest of the time it is open from 9-00 to 18-00. The cost of a full admission ticket is 6 euros.
National Museum of Ancient Art
This museum is one of the ten must-see attractions in Lisbon. Without looking here, it is difficult to get a complete impression of the cultural life, past and present, of the Portuguese capital. It is difficult to say when the history of the museum began. However, for a long time it was a small exhibition organized at the monastery of St. Francis.
However, over time, there were so many exhibits that it was decided to build a separate building for them. The grand opening took place not so long ago, in the 90s of the 20th century. Today the museum's collection includes paintings, antique furniture, sculptures and even luxurious jewelry. All this is conditionally divided into three groups, each of which has a separate floor.
The first includes works by European masters. Here you can find paintings by famous artists, such as Raphael, and much less popular ones. The second part of the museum's exhibition is medieval art of Asia and Africa.
Portuguese sailors were interested not only in goods, but also in painting, and often brought canvases with them. Today, most of them are collected in the National Museum of Ancient Art. And finally, the third part of the museum is dedicated exclusively to the creativity of the Portuguese. It is she who arouses the greatest interest among those who come to get acquainted with the customs, traditions and culture of the country.
The museum is located on Rua Janelas Verdes. Buses No. 713, 714 or 727 go to the stop of the same name. The exhibition is open from 10-00 to 18-00, you can visit it any day except Monday. To touch the beauty you will have to pay 6 euros.
Archaeological Museum at the Karmu Monastery
The Monastery of Carmo is one of the most romantic attractions in Lisbon. It recalls the distant times of Byron, medieval battles, valiant knights, dizzying victories and devastating defeats. Today, within its walls there are many interesting things: a church, residential buildings, the Santa Justa elevator and, of course, the archaeological museum. The history of the archaeological museum began in 1864. It was then that a group of enthusiastic archaeologists organized a small exhibition at the no longer active Corfu monastery, consisting of exhibits found in the area. Gradually, archaeological finds from all over the country began to “flock” here.
Today the museum occupies the underground premises of the monastery. The setting itself is conducive to immersing yourself in distant eras and traveling through time. As for the exhibits, there are plenty of them here.
The richly decorated sarcophagi, including the Egyptian one, are considered the pearl of the collection. However, much more guests are amazed by the real mummies brought to Lisbon from Peru.
Against their background, the exhibition dedicated to the history of architecture does not look so impressive. However, those who know at least a little about this matter or simply consider themselves amateurs have a completely different opinion about it. After all, fountains from different eras, magnificent Azulejo tiles and other decorative elements presented in the museum are quite rare in real architecture.
In order to get to the archaeological museum you need to get to the Baixa-Chiado metro station. The doors are open for guests from 10-00 to 19-00, any day except Sunday. Entrance fee - 3.5 euros. The price includes a visit to the museum and the monastery as a whole. Guests who consider history boring and archeology something uninteresting should definitely overcome their prejudices and look into the underground halls.
Basilica de Estrela
The Basilica de Estrela towers above all other attractions in Lisbon. Moreover, in the literal sense of the word. Standing on a hill, it can be seen from almost anywhere in the city. The appearance of the basilica resembles the Mafra Palace. The same late Baroque style with elements of classicism, which was just beginning to come into its own. The same ornate details. And, of course, both of these buildings look not just great - luxurious.
But it turns out that what unites them is not only their appearance. The basilica, like the palace, was built for a reason, but on the occasion of the birth of the long-awaited heir. In 1761, Maria I of Portugal gave birth to a son, José. However, it was not possible to begin work immediately and it was done only in 1779. Unfortunately, the prince himself did not live to see their completion, in 1790 - he died two years earlier. That is why the grand opening of the basilica did not work out, and Queen Mary later turned this place into her tomb.
Today it is worth visiting the temple at least to look at the numerous sculptures decorating it. The most famous ones are included in the Christmas group, consisting of 500 small figures. There is also a good collection of paintings by Italian Pompeo Batoni. At the top of the basilica there is an observation deck, which can rightfully be called one of the most spectacular in all of Lisbon.
Getting to the basilica is not difficult - just take tram number 28, which is always popular among tourists, and get off at the stop of the same name. Admission is free, but in order to see Lisbon from a bird's eye view you will have to pay 5 euros.
Belem Tower
The Belem Tower is considered one of the Seven Wonders of Portugal and is naturally one of the must-see attractions in Lisbon. Its appearance is reminiscent of the distant times of merchant seafarers and discoverers of distant lands. What can we say about the history, which reflected more than one period of the country’s development. As many years ago, the Belem Tower serves as an excellent landmark for ships, and the Virgin Mary of Safe Returns, whose sculpture is installed here, rejoices for those who have returned to the mainland and patronizes those who are still far from it.
Once upon a time, the tower was not only a symbol of successful sailings, but also a defensive bastion. Today, 16 powerful guns installed in casemates remind us of this. But much more tourists are attracted to the second floor, where the legendary statue of the patroness of sailors is installed, and there is also a small balcony from where many years ago the royal family greeted ships sailing from afar. At the top of the tower there is an observation deck from which a stunning panorama of the Tagus River opens, as well as views of Lisbon itself.
As for the external appearance of the tower, it can rightfully be considered unique. The architecture of this building mixed a huge number of styles, with the result that the result was not a traditional impressive one, but a light and floating one, but still a fortress. On the walls there is a huge amount of decorations related to the marine theme.
It is extremely interesting to look at them and find either an anchor, or a sea knot, or something else. The tower is located in the central part of the Portuguese capital, you can reach it by tram number 15 or buses number 714, 727. Its doors are open from 10-00 to 18-30 in the summer and until 17-00 in the winter on any day except Monday. Entrance costs 6 euros, but if you come here on the first Sunday of the month, you can visit Belem completely free.
Lisbon City Museum
The City Museum is one of Lisbon's most visual attractions. During a several-hour excursion or just a walk through the halls, guests have the chance to look into a variety of eras, as well as get acquainted with certain areas of art. The history of the museum began several centuries ago. Every year it expanded, the collection increased, and today it is already able to amaze even seasoned travelers. For the convenience of guests, all exhibits are very clearly divided into groups, each of which is dedicated to a particular time or area.
Of greatest interest is the collection of geographical maps of the 17th-20th centuries. The Portuguese have always been leaders in the field of navigation and exploration of new lands, and this is the best place to trace the history of discoveries. And, who knows, maybe there are still corners on planet Earth that have yet to be mapped? Another room worth paying attention to is dedicated to azulejo tiles. For hundreds of years it has been produced in just two countries: Spain and Portugal, so the craft can truly be considered unique. The collection presents unusual and best samples made at different times.
And finally, a small but very interesting part of the museum is the unique House with Peaks, Casa dos Bicos. An unusual masterpiece by local architects. You can get to the city museum by metro. To do this you need to get off at Campo Grande station. It is open from 10 am to 6 pm, any day except Monday. The entrance fee is purely symbolic - 1.5 euros. You can enter Casa dos Bicos completely free of charge.
Castle St. George
For hundreds of years, this castle has stood guard over the sights of Lisbon from various times, the honor of Portugal and its safety. Many people call it nothing other than the Kremlin. The majestic and formidable fortress, which is visible from almost any part of the city, appeared on the banks of the Tuzhu River back in the 12th century. Since then, she has been a witness to all historical events related to Lisbon, a participant in wars and coups d'etat. True, these days no one has threatened Portugal for a long time and the defensive structure has turned into a museum.
So, what awaits guests behind the massive and impregnable walls. First of all, there is a cozy courtyard along which peacocks stroll leisurely. In its center there is a colorful restaurant. Although this was not always the case - once upon a time there was a royal residence here, which has not survived to this day. Right there, in the courtyard, you can get acquainted with a variety of medieval tools. In the basement of the fortress there is a small but very interesting archaeological museum. It’s worth visiting if only to learn more about old, medieval Lisbon.
And, of course, a visit to St. George’s Castle cannot be imagined without a walk along the fortress walls. When else will the Portuguese capital be right at your feet? Finding the Castle of St. George is not difficult - it is visible from anywhere in Lisbon. You can visit inside any day from 9-00 to 21-00 (in winter - until 18-00). The entrance ticket costs 8.5 euros.
Lisbon Zoo
Among the attractions of Lisbon, the zoo stands out especially. After all, this is a place where you can take a break from architectural masterpieces and escape from the bustle of the city. In addition, getting to know the animal world is a must for those traveling with children. The Lisbon zoo differs from most other city zoos in that its inhabitants do not live in cages, but in conditions as close as possible to natural ones.
Lions and tigers rest on the grass that resembles a savannah, monkeys climb trees, and the rhinoceros is the luckiest of all - his home resembles an African village. To make it convenient for guests to observe the animals, benches and tables are installed throughout the zoo. Here you can not only take a break, enjoy nature, but also have a small picnic.
At specially set times, employees approach the enclosures with animals and invite everyone to not only look at a variety of animals, but also feed them. Children are delighted with this opportunity. Naturally, all this is done in compliance with safety rules and does not concern predators.
Those for whom feeding shows aren't enough can check out a dolphin performance, visit the kingdom of reptiles, or tickle their nerves by walking on a cable car.
Lisbon Zoo is located within the city, you can get to it by buses No. 16,31, 70, 96, as well as by minibuses. You need to get off at the Jardim Zoologico stop. In summer, the doors of the animal world are open to visitors from 10-00 to 20-00, in winter until 18-00. It is better to check the schedule of the dolphin show before your visit on the official website or in current advertising brochures. For a ticket to the zoo you will have to pay 19.5 euros for an adult and 14 euros for a child aged 3 to 11 years. Entrance is free for the youngest guests.
Cathedral
The medieval Lisbon Cathedral is one of the significant architectural symbols of the capital of Portugal. The temple was built on the foundation of a destroyed mosque in the 12th century. The shrine externally resembles an impregnable fortress with powerful walls. This is the only building in the city that survived the severe earthquake of 1755. The exterior and interior of the religious building reflect Gothic, Baroque and Romanesque styles of architecture.
The austere building of the cathedral is designed in the shape of a Latin cross with three naves. The façade of the shrine is devoid of refined and pompous decorative elements. The two wide crenellated bell towers with arched windows and loopholes, as well as the central large rose window, attract attention. In the interior decoration, the exquisitely designed vaulted ceiling and the abundance of sculptural images of saints attract attention. The temple is open for visiting from 9:00 to 19:00. Free admission.
Elevator Santa Justa
On one of the central streets of Lisbon stands a strikingly beautiful steel structure, decorated with filigree patterns of metal lace. This is the famous tower with two elevators - Santa Justa. The engineering structure was designed and erected at the beginning of the 20th century. Its height is 45 meters. For 5 euros, polished wood elevators with mirrors take tourists to the observation deck, from where an amazing panorama of Lisbon opens. Ascent to the observation platform is carried out from 7:00 to 21:45. The elevator cabins can accommodate up to 20 people.
Praça do Comércio shopping area
On the embankment of the majestic river of the Iberian Tagus Peninsula lies Lisbon's most popular tourist attraction - the Market Square or Praça do Comércio. Until 1755, when Portugal was rocked by a powerful earthquake, there was a luxurious royal palace on the square. As a result of the raging elements, the structure was literally washed away by a giant wave. After the restoration of the city, the square was surrounded on three sides by a new architectural ensemble, consisting of buildings of the same type with colorful facades and arcade galleries on the first tiers.
The buildings housed chambers of commerce and government services. The central composition of Praça do Comércio is the bronze equestrian statue of King José I, mounted on a high pedestal. The square is open to the public 24 hours a day. Free admission.
Rossio Square
In the center of the capital of Portugal lies the original and vibrant Rossio Square. This is one of the must-visit places that will give tourists an unforgettable and pleasant experience. From time immemorial, active life has been in full swing here around the clock. Since the Middle Ages, bullfights and festivals have been held on the square. Today, this is the busiest part of Lisbon and attracts with its originality.
The rectangular space of the street is paved with picturesque mosaics.
White and black paving stones are laid out with wavy patterns, which can make impressionable people feel a little dizzy. The square is framed by historical buildings, among which the monumental National Theater with a massive six-column portico stands out. Two fountains with sculptural compositions, a column with a statue of King Pedro IV and numerous cafes give the square a special charm.
Alfama District
A walk through the oldest quarter of Alfama promises tourists the opportunity to get acquainted with the original way of life of the Portuguese. On the hilly slope there are favelas with labyrinths of cobbled narrow winding streets, ornate alleys and staircases. This is the only area of Lisbon that survived the devastating earthquake in 1755.
Chaotically built and tightly packed buildings immerse visitors to the ancient area in the era of past centuries. Here you can see many dilapidated centuries-old buildings, as well as quaint houses, the facades of which are decorated with magnificent tiles. Laundry hanging on lines across the streets, melodious Portuguese romances playing, cozy restaurants and hospitable locals create a colorful atmosphere.
Christ statue
One of the most significant attractions of Lisbon is noteworthy - the statue of Christ. The grandiose monument is a smaller copy of the world famous Brazilian sculpture. The statue symbolizes gratitude to the Savior for protecting Portugal from participating in World War II. The opening of the Statue of Christ took place in 1959. The sculpture with open arms stands on the opposite left bank of the Tagus River in the suburbs of Lisbon. The total height of the breathtaking large-scale structure is 110 meters. The monument is installed on a pedestal, inside of which there is an elevator.
Tourists can climb to the foot of the Jesus statue for scenic views of the city.
The cost of climbing to the observation deck is 5 euros. Visiting the attraction is available for tourists from 9:00 to 18:00.
Augusta Street and Arc de Triomphe
The central pedestrian street of Augusta attracts visitors to Lisbon with its festive and serene atmosphere. On both sides of the block there are historical buildings housing branded boutiques, taverns, restaurants, souvenir shops and other entertainment venues. The street pavement is paved with blue and white mosaic paving tiles. The colorful illumination on the facades of the houses pleases the eye. Entertainers, musicians and painters entertain tourists with their skillful talents.
The main decoration of the Augusta quarter is the Arc de Triomphe. A magnificent architectural creation was erected in 1875. The high arch is decorated with columns, bas-reliefs, elements of stone carvings, sculptures of famous statesmen, as well as allegorical statues. There is an observation deck on the roof of the structure, where you can go up for 3 euros daily from 10:00 to 18:00.
Belem Palace
The official residence of the President of Portugal rises in the hilly parkland of Lisbon's Belém district. The palace ensemble, surrounded by a garden and a fence, is a national architectural monument. The Baroque mansion was founded in the 16th century and served to receive high-ranking guests of the Portuguese kings. The Belém Palace is a complex of five unusual and rather modest buildings interconnected. They differ from each other in the number of floors and layout.
The pink facades of the buildings with snow-white fragmented wall decoration are harmoniously combined with green spaces. The buildings are topped with hipped roofs. An interesting terrace with a balustrade is richly decorated with beautifully painted tiles. The palace is open to tourists during the President's absence on Saturdays, by appointment. The ticket costs five euros.
Ajuda Palace
The earthquake of 1755 destroyed the royal palace, which stood on the modern Market Square of Lisbon. Members of the royal family were forced to choose a place to build a new residence. It became the hilly hills of the Ajuda region. Construction of the palace began in 1796, and was interrupted by the invasion of Napoleonic troops. The three-story building, rectangular in plan, made in the neoclassical style, received the royal couple only in the middle of the 19th century. The light facade of the palace is decorated with pilasters and sculptural compositions.
The interiors of the Ajuda Palace, which have been preserved in their original form, amaze with their splendor. The spacious rooms are furnished with antique royal furniture and decorated with works of art: ceiling frescoes, paintings, tapestries, statues and antique household items. Tourists can get acquainted with the way of life of the royal family for 5 euros. The palace is open every day from 10:00 to 18:00.
28 tram
Lisbon's famous tram number 28 is both public transport and a fascinating tourist attraction. The route runs through the historical quarters of the city, rich in architectural attractions. Vintage yellow trams run through streets so narrow that passengers can reach the walls of the facades of houses with their hands.
Despite their centuries-old age, the retro carriages confidently climb up with a roar, descend over hilly terrain and shake frighteningly on sharp turns. Not everyone will be able to enjoy the trip, since the number of people wishing to ride the iconic tram significantly exceeds the capabilities of the vehicles. You can purchase a single ticket from the driver for 2.90 euros.
Bridge 25 April
While walking along the Lisbon embankment, tourists will see the grandiose bridge named “25 April”. An ingenious engineering creation hangs over the Tagus River, connecting the capital of Portugal with the town of Almada. The length of the bridge structure is more than 2000 meters. The bridge was built in 1966 by an American construction company. Externally, the large-scale structure bears a striking resemblance to the famous Golden Gate of San Francisco. Movement through the architectural structure is carried out on two levels. The upper track is for cars, and the lower tier is for trains.
Initially, the bridge was named after the Prime Minister of Portugal at that time, A. Salazar. After the overthrow of the dictator during the bloodless April Revolution, the building received its current name - “25 April”. The cost of crossing the bridge is 1.75 euros.
Vasco da Gama Bridge
Among the various attractions of Lisbon, the seventeen-kilometer Vasco da Gama cable-stayed bridge stands out. It connects the banks of the Tuzhe River at the widest point of the channel. One of the longest bridge structures in Europe is impressive in its scale. It was inaugurated in 1998. The majestic architectural structure consists of numerous highly tensioned cables (cables) and massive support pillars. The central part of the structure rises 47 meters above the water, which allows large airliners to pass under the bridge. The toll for crossing the bridge is 2.75 euros.
Jeronimos Monastery
A remarkable monument of Portuguese architecture is the Jeronimos Monastery. The foundation of the monastery was dedicated to gratitude to the Virgin Mary for the successful completion of the expedition of Vasco da Gama, who paved the sea route to India. The building, rectangular in plan, amazes with its superbly decorated elongated façade. The exterior combines decorative elements of Flamboyant Gothic, Renaissance and Moorish styles. A conical dome dominates the structure. Ornate stone ornaments, protruding ribs, stucco molding, sculptures, bas-reliefs, pinnacles and an openwork wide arcade gallery - all this evokes a feeling of delight from what you see.
The luxurious interior decoration of the monastery deserves attention. A tour of the halls, refectory and chapel, where Vasco da Gama found eternal peace, will cost each tourist 10 euros. The monastery receives visitors from 10:00 to 18:00.
Carmelite Monastery
The mysterious and mystical appearance of the monastery of the monks of the Carmelite Order attracts the attention of guests of the capital of Portugal. The dilapidated Gothic monastery is a unique monument to an event that left a noticeable mark on the fate of Lisbon. In the 15th century, a noble Portuguese knight of noble birth, Nuno Alvares Pereira, being a devout man, sold all his property and founded the monastery of the Carmelite Order with the proceeds.
A natural disaster in 1775 caused colossal destruction to most of the monastery complex. Today, the ruins of the monastery serve as a reminder of that disaster. The high walls, columns, pointed arches and openwork stone carvings of the monastery church have survived. The Gothic vaults are impressive, through which you can see the blue sky. The monastery is open to visitors from 10:00 to 18:00. A countermark to enter the monastery costs 2.5 euros.
Monastery of San Vicente de Fora
In the Lisbon district of Alfama is located one of the most revered shrines of the city - the monastery of São Vicente de Fora. The monastery was founded back in 1147 for Augustinian monks. The religious building acquired its modern shape in the 17th century. The complex of buildings is a single composition consisting of a majestic temple and monastery buildings. The perfectly symmetrical light gray architectural ensemble embodies the best traditions of the Italian Renaissance. The façade of the temple is decorated with slender rows of pilasters and marble statues.
The church is topped with two corner bell towers, a balustrade and numerous decorative small turrets. The walls of the monastery courtyard are decorated with white and blue ceramic tiles, forming picturesque designs. For 5 euros, tourists can enter the monastery territory. The shrine welcomes visitors from Tuesday to Saturday. The attraction is open from 10:00 am.
Oceanarium
Throughout its centuries-old history, Portugal has been inextricably linked with the seas and oceans. It is therefore not surprising that Lisbon is home to the second largest aquarium in the world. This popular tourist spot fascinates with the beauty of the underwater world with its many inhabitants. About 20,000 representatives of the underwater world live here. The main exhibition of the institution is a huge aquarium holding 5 million liters of water. Around the main reservoir there are four small pools, recreating natural conditions for various representatives of fauna and flora. These include rocky coastlines, coral reefs, tropical underwater forests and arctic waters.
The oceanarium pleasantly surprises with the abundance of sea creatures. Here you can see numerous amphibians, mammals, invertebrates, fish and even birds. The aquarium is open every day from 10:00 to 20:00. Ticket price - 15 euros.
National Carriage Museum
The former equestrian arena of the Belém Palace houses one of Lisbon's most visited attractions, the Carriage Museum. Of interest is the extensive collection of unusually luxurious vehicles of kings, nobles and church ministers. The museum exhibits carriages created at the turn of the 16th-19th centuries. The works of carriage art are impressive in their size and design. The magnificent wood carvings, gilded and velvet painted details, sculptures and leather upholstery of the carriages attract the eye.
The museum hall is decorated with ceiling frescoes, wall tapestries and columns, which gives the interior a special historical ambience. The museum is open from 10:00 to 18:00 every day except Monday. The ticket price is 8 euros.
Viewpoint of San Pedro de Alcantara
The panoramic observation deck in the Parque São Pedro de Alcantara is a lively spot in Lisbon. The territory consists of two levels, filled with trees, flower beds, fountains, benches, sculptures and cozy cafes. Here you can meet many local youth and representatives of the creative intelligentsia. The observation deck offers a picturesque view of the abundance of red tiled roofs of the architectural ensemble of Lisbon. Entrance to the open shaded terrace of the park is free.
Maritime Museum
The great past of Portugal is covered with glorious and great geographical discoveries. Brave sailors set off from Lisbon to plow the oceans - Vasco da Gama, Bartolomeo Dias, Fernand Magellan and many others. Therefore, tourists will be interested in visiting the unique maritime museum. The museum is located in the building of the Jeronimos Monastery, where Vasco da Gama prayed before setting off on the legendary sea expedition. In numerous spacious halls, more than 15 thousand exhibits are displayed, dedicated to shipbuilding and the entire history of Portuguese navigation. These are ship models, authentic parts of ancient ships, geographical maps, weapons, orders of admirals and other artifacts.
Tourists can get into the spirit of one of the former largest maritime powers in the world for 6.5 euros. The museum is open to the public from Tuesday to Sunday inclusive. The institution is open from 10:00 to 18:00.
Museum of the East
A pleasant experience awaits connoisseurs of oriental culture when visiting the Lisbon Museum, which houses a large collection of art objects from China, India, Japan, South-East Asia and the Philippines. The exhibitions are dedicated to the legacy of the era of Portuguese colonialism in the Asian region. Porcelain tableware, textiles, ceramics, furniture, paintings, masks, jewelry and other antique artifacts reflect the cultural richness of Eastern civilization. The Oriental Museum is open every day except Mondays from 10:00 to 18:00. The ticket price is 6 euros. On Fridays, admission to the museum is free.
Electricity Museum
There are many places in Lisbon where you can spend educational time. One of these is a former power plant building, converted into an interactive museum. An industrial building with red brick walls supplied the city with energy in the first half of the 20th century. Visitors to this research center have the opportunity to take part in entertaining experiments in electricity generation. Educational exhibits represent a variety of devices, units, machines and mechanisms that clearly demonstrate the principle of operation of electricity. Entrance to the Electricity Museum is completely free, which pleases budget tourists. The complex is open from Tuesday to Sunday. The museum doors are open from 10:00.
Monument to the Discoverers
On the bustling Belenskaya embankment stands an impressive monument facing the mouth of the Tuzhe River. The sculptural composition is dedicated to the era of great geographical discoveries. The monument was founded in 1960. It is a tall stele, the silhouette of which resembles a caravel. On the deck of the ship there are figures of sailors, geographers, poets, scientists and nautical experts. The statues turn their gaze towards the ocean, anticipating an exciting journey. The height of the structure is more than 50 meters. Inside the monument there is an exhibition hall and an elevator that takes tourists to the top of the monument for 3 euros. The observation deck offers picturesque views of the entire Belém region.
Calouste Gulbenkian Museum
In a wonderful park with lawns, ponds and tall trees, there is a pearl among the museums of Lisbon. This is the private art collection of Calouste Gulbenkian. The cultural landmark amazes with the size of its collection of valuable exhibits. More than 1,000 unsurpassed masterpieces of art are on display for everyone to see. These are paintings, interior items, dishes, jewelry, carpets, sculptures, books, antique furniture, antique artifacts and other items.
The museum's collection owes its popularity to oil magnate and passionate antiques collector Calouste Gulbenkian. The philanthropist was the most influential businessman of the early 20th century. Gulbenkian bequeathed priceless works of art collected from all over the world to Lisbon, the city in which he spent the last years of his life. The price of a ticket to the museum is 12.50 euros. Tourists can visit the magnificent exhibition any day from 10:00.
Church of St. Roch
Portugal's first Jesuit church, St. Roch, was built on the site of the burial sites of plague victims in the 17th century. The unassuming, modest building of the temple hides a luxuriously decorated interior. The façade of the chapel is decorated with pilasters and topped with a triangular pediment with a round window. This is one of the few shrines in Lisbon in which every detail of the interior reflects the former wealth and power of Portugal.
Marble, gold, openwork wood carvings, tiles, mosaics, rare types of stones, as well as ivory items create a mesmerizing environment.
The single-nave hall of the temple attracts the attention of visitors with an arcade gallery, high columns, ceiling frescoes and sculptural compositions. Tiled and mosaic panels depict scenes of biblical motifs. You can visit the chapel from 10:00 every day except Monday. Free admission.
Church of Santa Engracia
On a high hill in the Alfama district stands a magnificent snow-white structure - the Church of Santa Engracia or the National Pantheon. The Catholic Church is a valuable architectural monument of Lisbon. Its construction began at the end of the 17th century. Within the walls of the church there are sarcophagi of revered figures of culture, science, sports and politics of Portugal. The baroque building of the cathedral has the shape of an equilateral cross in plan. The structure is topped with an impressive dome that rises 80 meters high.
Lisbon is the capital, largest city and main port of Portugal. I present TOP10 - a list of 10 places and things that you definitely need to visit and do when you are in Lisbon.
1. Be sure to visit Jerónimos (Mosteiro dos Jerónimos). The Hieronymite Monastery will greet you with the luxury of its portals, the well-groomed greenery of the courtyard and the coolness of its openwork arched galleries. Next to it is the Belem Tower. It is worth climbing its bastion to feel like a brave navigator on the threshold of Great discoveries.
2. Don't miss the opportunity to try culinary masterpieces! Next to the Hieronymite monastery is the pastry shop Pasteis de Belém. The famous Pastel de Belem cakes are sold here. Sweets and coffee are at every turn in Lisbon, so forget about your figure and “extra calories” while traveling.
3. Don't photograph all the buildings clad in azulejo tiles - you simply won't capture as many magnificent facades. To appreciate the beauty of Portuguese tiles, go to the Azulejo Museum (Museu Nacional do Azulejo) - there you will take pictures of the most expressive and vibrant panels.
4. The best photos of Lisbon will be taken from the city's observation platforms, so visit them. The most popular is Miradouro de Santa Catarina on the border of Chiado and Bairro Alto. The highest is Senhora do Monte: from here you can literally see the whole of Lisbon. The most spectacular is San Pedro de Alcântara (Miradouro São Pedro de Alcântara) with views of Baixa and the Castle of St. George. From the most “historical” observation deck of Santa Luzia (Miradouro de Santa Luzia), the Tagus River and the ancient Alafama district are visible.
Lisbon tram, photo by Thanasis Geo
5. You can also explore the city by tram. Take a window seat in an old carriage on the long “tourist” route No. 28, which passes through the most picturesque areas.
6. Meet the evening on the banks of the Tagus: from the Ribeira embankment and from the Column Pier there are stunning views of the sunset over Lisbon. Dine in the new Mercado da Ribeira area. There are dozens of chain restaurants and authentic cafes on the market. The market “food court” is considered one of the iconic places in the Portuguese capital.
7. At night, head to the Bairro Alto area. There are fashionable clubs and discos, international restaurants and small pubs. You can have fun until the morning among a noisy, motley crowd of tourists from different countries.
Oriente Station, photo by Nuno Morão
8. Go to the Park of Nations (Parque das Nações) - this futuristic complex cannot be visited even in a day! Explore Oriente Station (Gare do Oriente), considered the symbol of Lisbon. Go to the Oceanarium (Oceanário de Lisboa) - there, among many strange marine inhabitants, swims a rare and mysterious sunfish. Walk along the embankment to the longest European bridge, Vasco da Gama (Ponte Vasco da Gama).
9. Take a day to visit the city of Sintra, appreciate the beauty of the “pearl of Portugal”: fabulous palaces, parks, monasteries. Or lie on the golden sands of Costa da Caparica and Cascais beaches.
10. Think about the eternal in the halls of the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation Art Museum. Appreciate the contribution of a businessman and philanthropist to world culture by viewing a rich collection of works of art from different eras. Take a walk in the romantic park surrounding the museum.
Miradouro de Santa Catarina
Senhora do Monte
San Pedro de Alcantara
Santa Luzia
Torri di Belem
Patisserie Pasteis de Belém
Ribeira das Naos promenade
Park of Nations
Lisbon Aquarium
Vasco da Gama Bridge
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A visit to the westernmost European capital - Lisbon - will give tourists a considerable amount of impressions. It is worth noting that the city cannot boast of the presence of original historical monuments, because in the middle of the 18th century almost its entire area was destroyed by earthquakes, tsunamis and fires. But when Lisbon was rebuilt, the architects tried to preserve the historically valuable past of the capital. And today, palaces, cathedrals and various historical and cultural monuments remind of him, found everywhere. To better understand what we are talking about, see the main ones later in the article with photos and a brief description.
Top tourist spots in Lisbon
1. Jeronimos Monastery
The pride of Lisbon and all of Portugal is the Jeronimos Monastery, included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. On the territory of the monastery there is the burial place of the world famous Vasco da Gama. Jeronimos can easily be called one of the most beautiful attractions in Lisbon. The magnificent facade of the building is decorated with many battlements and turrets, and nearby there are fabulously beautiful fountains and the main square, paved with paving stones with various images. A museum has also been created at the shrine.
One of the most amazing places in Lisbon is the Plaza de Commerce. Its center is decorated with an equestrian monument to King Jose I. The symbol of the city is the Arc de Triomphe, which is also located on the Plaza de Commerce. The facade of the arch is decorated with a large number of bas-reliefs, and there are statues on its top. Several more architecturally magnificent buildings and towers were erected along the perimeter of the square. This is a favorite place for walking among both tourists and locals.
3. Torri de Belem Tower
The Torri de Belem Tower is one of the main symbols of Lisbon, the national pride of all of Portugal. This famous building is one of the so-called. Just over thirty years ago, the Torrey de Belém also acquired the status of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This monument was erected at the beginning of the 16th century in honor of the discovery of the sea route to the Indian Peninsula by the famous Portuguese traveler Vasco da Gama. The lower floor of the building is equipped with a beautiful terrace, and from the upper point there is a beautiful view of the surrounding area. This is a very popular place to visit in Lisbon among many tourists.
4. Aguash-Librish Aqueduct
The Aguas Libres Aqueduct plays an invaluable role among all the other attractions of the Portuguese capital. Erected at the beginning of the 18th century, the structure became a life-saving solution for the city - it made up for the lack of drinking water. It is surprising that the aqueduct continues to operate for its intended purpose in our time.
For a long period, the aqueduct was inaccessible to excursion groups, but several years ago the ban was lifted. Now tourists will be able to appreciate the greatness of this beautiful engineering creation.
5. Palace of Queluz
The Palace of Queluz is considered the best example of the life of the Portuguese kings of past centuries. This attraction is located near Lisbon. The construction of Queluz ended in the middle of the 18th century, and the building itself served as a summer residence for the king, his family and those close to the court. Despite the terrible fire, which caused considerable damage to the palace, it has survived to this day in excellent condition. After a tour of the mansion, tourists can stroll through the park and attend concerts given here.
Mafra Palace is the largest palace in all of Portugal and one of the most visited places in Lisbon. It was built at the beginning of the 18th century in honor of the birth of the long-awaited first child in the royal family. And of course, no expense was spared for the construction of the palace for this occasion. The structure was built, as they say, on a grand scale. Often, guests visiting the Marfa Palace hear almost a hundred bells located in the towers. The building itself has about 1,200 halls and rooms, and it is completely impossible to see them all during one excursion.
7. St. George's Castle
The greatest historical value for Lisbon is the Castle of St. George. Our compatriots jokingly nicknamed it the Lisbon Kremlin. This building, as a Portuguese stronghold, is no less than a thousand years old. This is how long he contemplates all aspects of urban life in the Portuguese capital. Previously, this building belonged to the Moorish state, and before that, to the Roman Empire. The main attraction for tourists is the opportunity not only to get acquainted with the castle, but also to visit its garden, full of peacocks, geese and ducks.
8. Lisbon Cathedral
The most prominent landmark of the capital of Portugal is the Cathedral. Its two bell towers, which in appearance resemble observation towers, can be seen from almost all parts of the city. The Cathedral also bears the title of the main temple of Lisbon. A visit to the cathedral begins from its square, from where tourists are invited to examine the façade of the building. Next, visitors are invited inside to appreciate the beauty of the interior, and then they can visit the archaeological exhibition at the temple.
Among tourists and residents of Lisbon, Calle Augusta, the main pedestrian street of the city, is very popular. In this beautiful place lies the largest shopping vein of the capital - numerous shops and boutiques. Artists, musicians and mimes found their refuge here. Most guides advise visiting Agushta Street at different times of the day, which will allow you to see the full contrast of its city life. This street is not recognized as the most popular place for walking.
The Basilica da Estrela was erected at the end of the 18th century, and its construction took eleven years. Due to its location, the dome of the cathedral is visible from almost any area of the city. The facade of the basilica is decorated with numerous statues of saints and other figures. But the greatest delight is caused by the “Christmas” group, which includes over five thousand sculptures. It is also worth noting that Balisica da Estrela became the burial place of Queen Mary.
As strange as it may sound, the only attraction of its kind in Lisbon is the Santa Justa elevator. Yes Yes! This is the only city elevator and it was designed at the beginning of the last century. You can use it to climb to Karmo Square, which is located at an altitude of 32 meters. In the evening, Santa Justa is illuminated by many lights located inside the structure, which makes its appearance incredibly attractive. From the observation deck of the elevator there is a beautiful panorama of the city.
12. Lisbon Zoo
A recommended place to visit in Lisbon is the city zoo. It will be interesting to visit for both children and adults. There are many species of animals here, most of which visitors can even feed. Guests of the huge complex are also invited to watch various show programs with the participation of dolphins, visit the reptile house and tickle their nerves on the cable car. It is noteworthy that all the inhabitants of the zoo live in conditions as close as possible to natural ones.
13. Lisbon Maritime Museum
The Maritime Museum in Lisbon was founded in the 19th century, and its doors are still open to tourists. As you might guess, it is dedicated to the shipbuilding of Portugal, which is called the country of ships. Despite the fact that the museum is located in the building of the Jeronimos Monastery, a sufficient number of halls are allocated for its exhibition. The entire collection of the museum includes over 15 thousand items, which will take several hours to examine. This is a great place to visit!
14. Museum of the East
Portugal gave birth to many sailors and colonialists. A huge number of travelers came here from all over the world. It is not surprising that the culture of the East left its mark in the western country of Europe. Therefore, a special place among the tourist destinations in Lisbon is given to the Oriental Museum. An exhibition is presented to the attention of visitors, the main part of which is dedicated to the stay of the Portuguese in Asia. The museum opened in 2008, but, nevertheless, its collection is quite rich in exhibits.
15. Electricity Museum in Lisbon
A rather unusual and popular attraction in Lisbon among tourists (especially science lovers) is the Museum of Electricity. It is located in the thermal station building. Here visitors can learn the basics of electricity generation through practical experiments. Most of the exhibits are allowed to be touched and experimented with. And the main thing is the safety of everything that happens. If you are interested in science, then you should definitely visit this place.
16. National Museum of Natural History and Science
An excellent place for an interesting pastime in Lisbon will be the National Museum of Natural History and Science. Its exhibition is so extensive and thoughtful that it meets the interests of both very young children and older adults. The collection of exhibits has been collected for two and a half centuries, and is located in several buildings at once. The museum has a botanical garden with an exhibition of exotic plant species and a butterfly pavilion. There are many educational exhibitions about the planet for children.
17. Azulejo National Museum
Visiting Portugal and not visiting the Azulejo National Museum is an unforgivable mistake. This attraction is the only one of its kind not only in Lisbon, but throughout the world. Azulejo is a traditional decorative material for decorating building facades. It was produced only in Portugal and Spain, but today production has stopped even in these countries. Therefore, the authorities decided to create a museum for this decorative type of tile.
18. Lisbon Aquarium
An exceptional destination for tourists and travelers in Lisbon is the aquarium, home to over 25 thousand representatives of the marine world. It is included in the list of the largest aquariums in the world. Coral fish, stingrays and sharks coexist peacefully here. Even pools with penguins and reptiles have found their place in the aquarium. And the huge octopus, whose tentacles are about 4.5 meters long, has gained particular fame among its inhabitants. There are displays around the perimeter of the attraction to help visitors gain more interesting information.
Lisbon, in the distant past, was the capital of a powerful maritime empire that gave the world the great Vasco da Gama and Ferdinand Magellan, and now a picturesque and atmospheric city that still preserves the memory of its former greatness. A dramatic and turning point in the history of Lisbon was 1755, when a powerful earthquake destroyed it almost to its very foundation. But, despite the fact that medieval architecture and many priceless monuments were lost, the restored Lisbon of the 18th-19th centuries is of great interest to tourists.
The capital of Portugal houses the treasures of the Jerónimos Monastery and the Ajuda Palace, the quaint streets of the Alfama and Baixa quarters and flaunts grandiose suspension bridges. The historical heritage of the city is priceless, so a wide field of exploration opens up for tourists.
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What to see and where to go in Lisbon?
The most interesting and beautiful places for walks. Photos and brief description.
The square is considered one of the most beautiful in Europe. It is located on the bank of the river, where the Ribeira Palace used to stand, destroyed by an earthquake (which is why the second name of the place is Palace Square). Several centuries ago, Praça do Comércio was the main gate of Lisbon. Ships with riches taken from the Portuguese colonies landed here, and royal delegations arrived. Majestic monuments and austere administrative buildings testify to its former glory.
The central pedestrian boulevard of Lisbon is full of tourists and locals at any time of the year. It stretches from Rossio Square to the Arc de Triomphe. The street is full of unusual atmospheric cafes and shops. The pavement of Augusta Street is laid out by hand, with original patterns woven into a bizarre pattern. The place was named after the Portuguese taxi driver Augusto Macedo, who carried passengers around Lisbon for almost 70 years.
The square arose on the site of an ancient Roman hippodrome; its history goes back hundreds of years. The square is located in the Baixa district - one of the most colorful and interesting places in Lisbon. Until 1755, it was surrounded by luxurious buildings in the Manueline style, as the entire city was bathed in luxury thanks to the fabulous wealth of the Portuguese colonies. After the earthquake, the entire area and square were rebuilt.
Almafa is the only urban area from which at least something remains after the 1755 earthquake. Its architecture with chaotically located streets corresponds to the idea of medieval cities. The area is located on a hill, people move around it using numerous stairs. Cars are unlikely to pass between the ancient houses with shabby walls, but there is room for tram lines.
An architectural monument of the 16th century, included in the UNESCO list. The tower was erected in honor of Vasco da Gama's discovery of the route to India; at different times it housed a defensive fort, a gunpowder warehouse, a prison, and a customs point. The building was built in the unique Portuguese Manueline style, which was almost lost by the 19th century. The facade and interior of the tower are decorated with priceless monuments from the era of the Great Geographical Discoveries.
The palace was built in the 17th century in the Rococo style. It served as the summer residence of the Portuguese king Pedro II. The building was later used to house dignitaries. Today, classical music concerts are held on the palace grounds. Particularly noteworthy are the luxurious Throne and Music Halls, as well as the magnificent and lavishly decorated royal chambers.
The castle dates back to the 5th century AD. on the site of a Roman fortification, over the fifteen hundred years of its existence it was rebuilt several times. In the 12th century, it housed the residence of the Moorish ruler. Until the 16th century, Portuguese monarchs lived in the castle. In 1755, the building was destroyed by an earthquake to its very foundation. Recovery occurred only in the first half of the 20th century.
A neoclassical building from the first half of the 19th century, built for Luís I and his wife. Previously, an earlier royal residence from the 15th-16th centuries was located on the site of Ajuda, but it was destroyed during an earthquake. The palace rooms and halls are furnished elegantly and luxuriously, the wide halls and passages are decorated with sculptures, paintings and tapestries of great cultural value.
The residence of the Portuguese President, located in the Belém district. Previously, during the monarchy, the rulers of Portugal stayed here. The palace was erected in the middle of the 16th century and rebuilt in the 18th century. The predominant architectural styles of the complex are Baroque and Mannerism. The facade is decorated with Portuguese azulejo tiles, which depict mythological heroes and epic scenes.
One of the key attractions of Portugal, recognized as a national monument at the very beginning of the 20th century. Since 1983 it has been included in the UNESCO heritage list. The monastery houses the remains of the great navigator Vasco da Gama. The monastery was built towards the end of the 16th century using income received from the newly discovered lands. The history of Jeronimos is closely associated with the grandiose period of the Great Geographical Discoveries and the power of Portugal.
A medieval monastery of the 13th-14th centuries, built by the aristocrat Nuno Alvares Pereira for the brothers of the Carmelite Order. This noble knight sold all his property and became a monk. In 1755, as a result of an earthquake, the building was destroyed and many priceless relics were lost. After restoration, the complex was used as a warehouse and barracks, and later an archaeological museum was located within the walls.
The complex was built in the 16th-17th centuries. on the site of the Church of St. Vincent - the patron saint of Lisbon. The monastery is one of the most revered in Portugal; for some time the residence of the city archbishop was located here. The monastery was built in the late Renaissance style. Its walls are richly covered with mosaics depicting battle scenes, and the façade is decorated with azulejo mosaics. On the territory of San Vicente de Fora there is a tomb of the Braganza dynasty.
The church was erected by order of Queen Mary, who was grateful to Heaven for the appearance of the long-awaited heir. The Basilica is considered one of the most picturesque churches in Lisbon; it was built in the Baroque style with neoclassical elements. The construction of the temple began after the Lisbon earthquake (the queen was late in fulfilling her promise, since at that moment her son Jose was already 18 years old).
Jesuit Church, one of the oldest churches of this order. It was erected on the site of a cemetery in the 16th century. The temple was named in honor of Saint Roch, the patron saint of the sick. The interior is luxurious; King João V took part in its creation. The walls are decorated with skillful frescoes by famous Portuguese painters, many finishing elements are made of marble and decorated with gilding.
The main cathedral of Lisbon, which arose in the Early Middle Ages. It is believed that a Roman temple stood in its place, which the Visigoths converted into a Christian church. During the period of Arab rule on the Iberian Peninsula, the temple was destroyed, and a mosque was erected in its place. In 1150 a new building appeared, which stood for six centuries until the earthquake. However, the cathedral was not completely destroyed by the elements; it was reconstructed, diluting the strict Romanesque architecture with Gothic, Baroque and Neoclassicism.
A majestic and monumental structure made of pink marble in the Portuguese Baroque style, which has a second name - the National Pantheon of Portugal. The construction of the church began in the 17th century, and was completed only in the 20th century. The role of the pantheon went to the temple under dictator A. Salazar. Politicians, famous writers and other cultural figures are buried in the church.
An art gallery containing examples of European, ancient and oriental art. The museum was organized with funds from the Armenian tycoon G. Gulbenkian in 1969, who emigrated to Portugal after the Second World War. The museum exhibits a large collection of paintings, jewelry, sculpture and applied art. Here you can look at works by Rembrandt, Manet, Degas, Rubens and Renoir.
The collection is based on works of art confiscated from monastic orders. These religious associations were dissolved at the beginning of the 19th century, and part of their wealth fell into the hands of the state. The museum exhibits works by Portuguese masters of the 14th-19th centuries, paintings by European artists, collections of sculpture and ceramics, textiles, furniture and other decorative items.
A museum housing a collection of royal family carriages. It was created with the participation of the last queen of Portugal, Amelia, as she wanted to preserve the carriages and show them to the general public. Subsequently, the collection was replenished with specimens from France, Austria, Italy and other European countries. In the museum you can see carriages from the 17th-19th centuries. In 2015, a new modern building was built for the exhibition.
The museum is located in the building of a former power plant, which regularly supplied electricity to the city for several decades. The building is a rare and interesting example of Portuguese industrial architecture, which mixes Art Nouveau and Classicism. In the museum, a visitor can look at the equipment, observe the processes of producing electricity, or listen to an educational lecture.
The exhibition is located on the territory of the Jeronimos Monastery. In the distant past, Portugal was a great maritime empire, with numerous colonies all over the world subordinate to it. Museum exhibits remind the visitor of those glorious times. The halls display various models of ships, maps, and navigational instruments that the Portuguese discoverers used in their travels.
The city zoo is located on a very picturesque area, decorated with architectural monuments. It is home to about 300 species of animals, mainly felines, primates and animals imported from the colonial possessions of Portugal. The zoo proclaims the main goal of its existence is the preservation and revival of rare and endangered species. Some animals on the territory of the zoo are being adapted for release into the wild.
The oceanarium is considered the largest in Europe; it is home to more than 450 species of marine life (16 thousand individuals). The main aquarium covers an area of 1 thousand m² and reaches a depth of 7 meters. The aquarium contains quite rare marine species: sunfish, sea beaver, crab spider and others. Separate aquariums house inhabitants of the Atlantic, Indian and Pacific oceans.
City elevator connecting Rua do Ouro and Largo do Carmo. It was built at the beginning of the 20th century to help pedestrians who were forced to overcome a fairly steep slope to get from the Baixa area to the Chiado area. The elevator is designed in an elegant neo-Gothic style. At first it moved with the help of steam engines, later they were replaced by electric ones. The elevator is a popular tourist attraction.
A monument erected in honor of figures from the era of great geographical discoveries. This impressive monument was built during the reign of dictator Salazar. It is distinguished by its majestic style and enormous size; the height of the monument reaches 50 meters. In this way, the architect wanted to emphasize the importance of the discoveries made by Portuguese navigators. At the top of the monument there is a panoramic observation deck.
The aqueduct was built in the first half of the 17th century and survived the earthquake of 1755. It is still included in the city's existing water supply system. The arches of the aqueduct reach a height of 60 meters. Until the middle of the 19th century, it was possible to walk along it, but a decision was made to close the passage due to frequent suicides. Nowadays, you can take a tour of the aqueduct as part of an organized group.
Iron suspension bridge from the 60s. XX century, spanning the Tagus River and connecting two urban districts. The length of the structure stretched 2.22 km. It is considered one of the longest suspension bridges in the world. Until 1974, the structure was named after António Salazar, but after the Red Carnation Revolution on April 25, it was renamed in honor of this significant day for Portugal.
The most impressive and longest European bridge over the Tagus River, stretching for 17 km. The grandiose structure was erected in just 3 years, despite the incredible scale of the project. The bridge was launched on March 29, 1998. This date was not chosen by chance, since it was in 1498 that Vasco da Gama set sail along the sea route from Europe to India. The bridge was built with funds from the private company Lusoponte.
The narrow and rough streets of central Lisbon have tram routes that have been in service for over a hundred years. The famous yellow trams belong to the Lisbon Tram Network. Route No. 28 is especially popular. It passes through all the historical districts of the city, makes many sharp turns and visits very colorful places. Tram number 28 is constantly crowded with tourists, as many prefer to get to know the city by ride.
Lisbon is located on hills; often, getting from one area of the city to another requires considerable physical effort and overcoming many stairs and slopes. There are observation decks scattered throughout the city, offering magnificent views of Lisbon, the Tagus River, suspension bridges, and the ocean coast. The best sites are Santa Lucia, Senhora do Monte, Graça, Gate of the Sun, as well as the one located on Cape Roca.
