![]() The historic neighbourhood is characterised by its narrow, winding streets, colourful buildings, and picturesque alleys.īefittingly, one of my favourite films growing up was ‘Midnight in Paris’, a film about an aspiring writer in modern times who is magically transported back to 1920s Paris, where he meets and hangs out with Hemingway, Fitzgerald, and other great artists of the time. Whenever I wander through Alfama, I always feel as though I have stepped back in time and been transported to a place that captures the same artistic energy that so fascinated me in all those stories. I would lose myself in their stories of wandering the streets of the city, sipping coffee in bohemian cafes, and engaging in lively conversations with other writers and artists. Scott Fitzgerald set in the vibrant café culture of Paris. Growing up, I was fascinated by the literature of the Lost Generation, particularly the works of Ernest Hemingway and F. Around every corner, I am always discovering something new, from tiny churches to lonely statues, to long lost fountains, especially in Alfama, the oldest neighbourhood in Lisbon. There are lots of other monuments and landmarks that beautifully blend in with the cityscape, from the São Jorge Castle to Lisbon’s Cathedral, to the Santa Justa Lift – which was designed by Raoul Mesnier du Ponsard, an apprentice of Gustave Eiffel. Two significant examples are the Jerónimos Monastery, which was built to celebrate Vasco da Gama’s successful voyage to India, and the Belém Tower, a defensive fortification that protected the city’s port. ![]() The profits made from Portuguese explorers traveling to distant lands in search of valuable goods, such as gold and spices, helped to fund the construction of various monuments and buildings in Lisbon, many of which remain iconic symbols of the city to this day. These buildings give Lisbon a distinct character and make it a joy to explore its rich history that spans hundreds of years.įrom Phoenicians to ancient Greeks, Romans, and Islamic Moors, the city embodies a unique blend of history and modernity, with a cultural heritage that reflects the influences of various civilisations over the centuries. Walking through the city, I am always confronted with an array of hues, from soft pastels to bright, bold colours. I never realised how colourful Lisbon is until I started travelling outside of Portugal. Whether you prefer to walk along the beach, swim in the sea, or simply sit and watch the waves, the coast of Lisbon is a natural wonder that never fails to impress me.Īnother reason Lisbon is so unique and charming is its colourful buildings. The Belém Towerįrom calm and relaxing waters to beaches with large waves which are great for surfing, the sound of the crashing waves is a constant reminder of the power of the sea, and the bravery and skill required to navigate it. Lisbon’s coastline is a place of great natural beauty, with rugged rocks, sandy beaches, and refreshing waters, yet it was also the starting point of many voyages that defined the Age of Discovery and the expansion of the known world. ![]() I have lived in Lisbon for over eight years now, and each time I walk along the coast, I can’t help but think about all the great explorers of the past, setting out on their voyages to unknown lands and uncharted territories. Lisbon is also blessed with a coastline that is just a short distance away from the city centre, which makes it a unique destination for those who want to live in a bustling city yet be close to the sea. It is a smaller capital compared to other major ones around Europe, which gives it a more intimate feel. ![]() Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, is a city that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. ![]()
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