about Lisbon

about Lisbon

Lisbon is an adventure and there is much to discover.
History

Nobody knows the exact date of the birth of the city of Lisbon, it already existed in the time of the Roman emperor Julio César and was called Olissipo.
After the fall of the Roman empire, Lisbon was invaded a few times, by several peoples. For centuries, Lisbon has been looted, destroyed and rebuilt, over and over again. Its strategic position, natural shelter and fertile soils are at the top of its most attractive features.
In the seventh century, Lisbon (al-Ushbuna) was conquered by the Moors, just like most of what is now Portuguese territory. At the time, Lisbon was centered in the districts of Castelo, Mouraria and Alfama.
Almedina was the central part of the city, next to the main mosque, where the Casas d'Almedina were born.

In 844 and 966 there were attacks of Vikings to the city, all in vain. Lisbon was well protected. The Moors were able to see the boats entering the Tagus River and anticipate the attacks.
Lisbon was finally conquered in 1147 by the first Portuguese king, D. Afonso Henriques. In fact he was a vassal count of the kingdom of Leo in northern Spain, who rebelled against his mother, winning her in battle. He proclaimed himself King of Portugal and later the Pope recognized Portugal as an independent kingdom.
old lisbon map
typical tram

Riding a typical tram or elevator

Everyone speaks of the famous tram 28, but if you are not a fan of crowds we recommend the typical elevators of Bica, Lavra and Glória, or the trams 25 and 12.

Touristic or not they are typical and the locals still use them to go up and down the hills.


All buses, trams and elevators belong to the same company, Carris, so it's the same ticket.
bitoque

Eat portuguese food

If there is something fantastic about being Portuguese then this the food! There are even those who say that "food is love in Portuguese". From the famous taverns to the most fashionable restaurants there is a bit of everything in Lisbon. The neighborhoods of Alfama, Bairro Alto and Cais do Sodré are among the best known for finding a good restaurant or bar.

If you have doubts about choosing something for the kids you can always ask for the almost international "bitoque"! It is rare to find a place that does not have it.

If you are more interested in eating fish try the restaurants of Belém or Alcantara.
tuk tuk tejo in lisbon

Go on a tuk tuk

Because? Because it's super fun and an experience you will not forget.

Tuk tuks are typical of Asia, but flooded the city of Lisbon, mainly by the ease in accessing the narrow streets of the oldest areas. Along the way the driver will let you know some stories and legends about the city.
night in bairro alto
sightseeing
praca do comercio lisbon main square
lost in alfama

Lose yourself in Alfama

If you never got lost in Alfama it's because you've never been to Lisbon.

Probably the only people who do not get lost are Alfama locals ... so do not feel bad. It's normal, do not panic, always head down towards the river! Explore the narrow streets and small courtyards, smell the sardines in the charcoal and hear the fado singing. Alfama is a small village within a large city and the visit will take between 15 to 20 minutes at a minimum.

Remember that people live here, respect the place.
lisbon castle
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