Where to find Historical Sites in Lisbon?

Many people who come to the beautiful city of Lisbon don’t just want to relax, they also want to experience the amazing historical culture that the city has to offer. Visitors of Lisbon are often flabbergasted by how much history is packed in such a small city. Whether you’re interested in visiting picturesque castles, or old churches, or simply exploring the numerous monuments and plazas, there’s something to entertain and awe everyone in Lisbon.

If you’re looking to visit some historical sites in Lisbon, here are some of the places you should consider first:

Mosteiro Dos Jeronimos

Mosteiro dos Jeronimos is easily the most famous historical structure in Lisbon and it’s one that you would definitely not want to miss out. Built as an homage to the explorer Vasco Da Gama’s journeys, this 16th century church is a stunningly beautiful architectural masterpiece. It’s highly decorated in the Manueline style, using sea-inspired sculptures – adding to its grandeur. This monastery was declared as a UNESCO world heritage site in 1983, which further cements its importance as a major historical landmark in Lisbon.

Castelo Sao Jorge

Castelo Sao Jorge is another important castle located in Lisbon. It was built by the Moors around the end of the 11th century and was the main stronghold of Lisbon during centuries of different religious, cultural and political situations. The castle itself is an impressive structure, built on top of a hill. Once you enter, you can explore its towers, walls and gardens, as well as enjoy the magnificent views of the city. You can also take guided tours which will offer plenty of insight into its various uses over the centuries.

Torre De Belem

Situated on the northern bank of the Tagus river, Torre De Belem is a fortress and a UNESCO world heritage site which is built in Moorish style of architecture, including various decorative elements which give it extra character. This tower is well preserved and is the symbol of the riches of Portugal in its 16th century Golden Era. Make sure to visit this impressive landmark while you are in Lisbon and you will not be disappointed!

Palacio Nacional de Sintra

Located just outside Lisbon, Palacio Nacional de Sintra is another incredible historical site that should not be missed during your visit to Portugal. This palace was built in the 15th century and includes beautiful Gothic, Moorish and Manueline architectural features – making it truly unique among other sites in the region. If you visit this palace, you can explore its grottoes, lakes, ponds and enjoy its many adorned interiors.

Conclusion

There are many more historical sites located in Lisbon and its surrounding area, but if you only have limited time in Lisbon then these five sites should be your primary destination if you want to experience and explore its rich history. The beauty of these places has managed to stand the test of time and will surely bring joy to any history buff who visits them!

An Insider’s Guide to Discovering Lisbon’s Rich Historical Sites

Lisbon, the capital city of Portugal, is a city steeped in history. From the impressive remains of the Roman Empire to the intricate designs of Manueline architecture, Lisbon has something for every history enthusiast. In this insider’s guide, we’ve curated a list of historical sites that should be on your bucket list when visiting Lisbon.

Local Attractions

1. Jerónimos Monastery
The Jerónimos Monastery is a famous UNESCO World Heritage site in Lisbon that was built during the 16th century. The monastery is an excellent example of Manueline architecture, and it is home to the tomb of the explorer Vasco da Gama. The architecture of the monastery is breathtaking and should not be missed.

2. Castle of São Jorge
This medieval castle in Lisbon is located atop a hill. The castle dates back to the 11th century, and it provides stunning panoramic views of the city. Take a guided tour for an in-depth exploration of its rich history.

3. Belém Tower
The Belém Tower is another example of Manueline architecture, and it is listed on the UNESCO World Heritage site. The tower was built during the 16th century in honor of Vasco da Gama’s discovery of a sea route to India.

Dining Spots

1. Mercado da Ribeira
Mercado da Ribeira is a food hall located in Lisbon that dates back to the 19th century. It is a culinary destination for foodies across the city, with over 40 different kiosks providing visitors with exquisite local and international cuisines.

2. Café A Brasileira
When in Lisbon, a visit to Café A Brasileira is a must. It is a famous café located in the Chiado district and dates back to the early 20th century. The café was a favorite haunt of writers, intellectuals and bohemians alike. Today, visitors can still enjoy a hot cup of coffee while soaking in the atmosphere.

3. Pastéis de Belém
No visit to Lisbon would be complete without a visit to Pastéis de Belém, a famous pastry shop that serves the traditional Portuguese egg tarts known as pastel de nata. The pastry shop dates back to 1837 and is still family-run to this day.

Cultural Experiences

1. Calouste Gulbenkian Museum
The Calouste Gulbenkian Museum is one of the best museums in Lisbon and showcases an impressive collection of artworks from around the world. The museum has a vast collection of Egyptian, Greek and Roman artifacts, and also features works by Antonio Francisco Lisboa, aka “Aleijadinho,” one of the most renowned artists of the Brazilian Baroque period.

2. Fado Music
Fado music is a traditional Portuguese genre of music that’s been around for over 200 years. It is known for its soulful melody, melancholic lyrics, and heartfelt delivery. Visitors to Lisbon should not miss the opportunity to attend a live Fado performance, especially at the iconic Clube de Fado.

Local History

1. Museu Nacional do Azulejo
The Museu Nacional do Azulejo is a museum showing the evolution of tiles in the urban architecture of Lisbon and the decorative arts. The museum is located in an old convent and tells the history of the use of tiles in Portugal, dating back to the 15th century.

2. Casa dos Bicos
Casa dos Bicos is named because of its unusual façade that is covered in pointy stones resembling ‘bicos’. Dating back to the 16th century, the palace was built by Francisco de Almeida, the first Portuguese governor of India. Today, it hosts a cultural center that showcases some of the most exciting exhibitions in Lisbon.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

1. LX Factory
LX Factory is an industrial complex that has been transformed into a hip and trendy space for artists, cafes, and unique shops. It is a great place to find street art and murals, and visitors can find offbeat and unusual souvenirs, clothing, and antiques.

2. São Roque Church
The São Roque Church is a tiny and unassuming church that you might miss while visiting Lisbon. However, it is home to some of the most stunning Baroque art and architecture in the city. It was originally built during the 16th century and has been restored with incredible levels of detail.

In conclusion, Lisbon is rich in history, culture and attractions. The city’s monuments, museums, and landmarks are a testament to the city’s architectural and artistic splendor, and it is no surprise why Lisbon is consistently listed as one of the most visited cities in Europe.