Travel Guide to Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon is the main port of Portugal, which is located at the mouth of the Tagus River. This city is located in the picturesque place with numerous hills. That’s why Lisbon is also called "city on seven hills". Founded as a large settlement of the tribe of Iberian Lusitano, Lisbon has started its quick development due to its convenient location. After this it was soon conquered by the Roman Empire, then it belonged to the Arab Caliph, and later the French knights set up their ownership. Only in 1256 Lisbon has officially become the capital of Portugal. However, after a large earthquake that had destroyed many historic buildings, the city often became an arena for political clashes. Only the end of World War II has finally brought the city its long awaited peace.

After the devastating earthquake many sights of the city have been restored and today these places as well as other sites that have managed to survive are frequently visited by numerous tourists who come to see this magnificent city. The Vasco da Gama Bridge is one of the large-scale and modern facilities of our days. The bridge connects the city’s airport with a network of urban highways. This is also an important transport route that connects Lisbon and the rest of Europe.

The city's architecture combines different influences in design referring to various historical periods. Here you can see the Romanesque cathedral of the XII century; several churches built in the Baroque and Manueline styles - Church of St. Vicente de Fora, St. Roque, St. Conceição Velha, the Basilica of La Estrela, the Museum of Church Art; Gothic Carmelite Monastery, a beautiful castle built in the IX - XIV centuries. Lisbon is also rich in other magnificent palaces like Sao Bento, Mafra, Ajuda, Queluz; Geographic Society Museum, a rich Photo Archive and much more.