Sightseeing in Lisbon - what to see. Complete travel guide

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. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

One of the main symbols of the city is the beautiful Praça do Comercio Square. It is considered one of the most beautiful squares in Europe. The square is located on the bank of a river. For hundreds of years, it served as the real gates of the city. Merchant ships, as well as ships with royal delegations, arrived at the pier near the square. On the square, there are several beautiful monuments, and next to them you can see the most beautiful historical buildings.

An interesting historical monument is the Belém Tower, which was built in the 16th century. Not so long ago, the tower was listed in UNESCO. The construction of this beautiful architectural monument was timed to an important historical event - the opening of the sea route to India. In different periods, this tower was used as a defensive structure. Powder storehouse, prison, and afterwards even a customs station was located in it. Now, the tower is valuable for its unique architectural appearance. It is a rare attraction in the Portuguese Manueline style.

An equally impressive architectural monument is the Jeronimos Monastery, which is also a UNESCO site. To the whole world, this ancient monastery is famous for the fact that on its territory is the grave of the greatest navigator Vasco da Gama. The building of the monastery was constructed in the late 16th century. It is remarkable for its impressive size and very beautiful façade decoration. Now, the huge building of the monastery is surrounded by a luxurious landscaped garden, around which is especially interesting to stroll in the summer.

Art lovers will like the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum located in a beautiful stone building, which in summer literally drowns in the abundance of greenery. This art gallery contains an interesting collection of paintings by European and Oriental craftsmen, and still contains items of antique art. Its name is in honor of the founder - the magnate C. Gulbenkian, who moved to Lisbon after the Second World War. In addition to beautiful paintings, in the museum you can see collections of old sculptures and jewelry, as well as applied art.

Also very interesting is the National Coach Museum, in which an array of these luxury vehicles of the 17th - 19th centuries is collected. Among the exhibits, there are coaches that once belonged to the royal family.