Lisbon - Day 1

Today, I initially explored the Belém district, where my accommodation is located. I had wanted to see the Jerónimos Monastery along with the cathedral, but quickly dismissed that idea due to the hundreds of people standing in line waiting for entry.

Close by is a notable landmark: the Padrão dos Descobrimentos (Monument to the Discoveries). This monument is meant to commemorate the Age of Discoveries and features 33 key figures from the late Middle Ages in Portugal, although they did not all live at the same time. Well, sorry dear hosts, but I can't shake the impression that the history of colonization, oppression, and slavery is somewhat glorified here. There are no indications or comments regarding that, which was quite unsettling.

The Belém Tower was completed in 1521 and served to defend the monastery and the approach to the city via the Tejo River. It is one of the few structures that survived the devastating earthquake and flood disaster of 1799, which leveled large parts of Lisbon. Unfortunately, visiting it was not possible due to renovation work.

To conclude, there was an absolute 'must-try' in Lisbon: The Pastel de Belém is the original of the delicious Lisbon pastry! This can only be found in the bakery of the same name in the Belém district of Lisbon. This popular pastry has been baked here since 1837 according to a secret recipe. The tourist lines in front were, of course, enormous, and why no one discovered the second entrance remains a mystery to me. So, I was able to enjoy the treat without a long wait.