Tag 113: Lisbon - City of Sailors and Conquerors

City of sailors and conquerors - the Age of Discoveries was Lisbon's golden age. The sailor Vasco da Gama, who discovered the sea route to India in the late 15th century, was received royally at Castelo São Jorge upon his return. The Discoveries Monument also commemorates the great Portuguese sailors. The historical influences are also reflected in an architectural style that is unique to Portugal: Manueline. It combines nautical, Moorish, and Indian elements into a richly ornamented decorative art. Examples of this unique art style are the Hieronymites Monastery and the Belém Tower, the symbol of Lisbon.

We explore Lisbon on foot. We walk along the banks of the Tagus River until we reach Praça do Comércio, which we cross to enter Rua Augusta through the imposing triumphal arch. We pass by plenty of stores that all advertise discounts to attract customers. In between, there are seating areas of cafés and restaurants. At the foot of the famous historic elevator to the upper district called Bairro Alto, there is a long line. 5€ and about a 3/4 hour wait discourage us, so we turn towards São Jorge Castle. It is located on a wooded hill, accessible via many stairs and narrow streets. Once we reach the top, we see the next line (admission 15€) and prefer to go to a nice little café instead. Strengthened, we begin our return journey, which leads us through Baixa, the area of the chessboard-like lower town, to the upper district called Bairro Alto, known for its small restaurants where Fado music is often played outside. While the women shop, we watch a street dancer and have a beer. Once everyone is back together, we walk down to the river. With the sun shining beautifully by now, many people are sitting in bars or on the beach. In good spirits, we make our way towards the port.

We skip the 25th of April Bridge and the Belém Tower as they are too far to walk. We walk along the promenade back to the ship.