Mitchell and I will be landing in Lisbon, Portugal on 3 April 2023 and will spend a few days here. Tonight, I have been looking up places of history that I can try to visit while staying in Lisbon.
Below I have found some places that would peak my interest. My interests usually revolve around historical battles, military use, the spread of successful empires such as the Romans.
- Belem Tower: To see a historic tower that was built in the 16th century to defend the Tagus River.
- Jeronimos Monastery: To explore a monastery that was built in the 16th century and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and to visit the tomb of explorer Vasco da Gama.
- Sao Jorge Castle: To visit a castle that dates back to the 11th century and was used as a royal palace until the 16th century.
- Alfama District: To wander through the city’s oldest district, with its narrow, winding streets and traditional Fado music venues.
- Sintra: To take a day trip to a nearby town that is home to several stunning palaces and castles, including the colorful Pena Palace and the medieval Castle of the Moors.
Belem Tower
Belem Tower is a fortification that was built in the early 16th century. The tower was constructed in order to protect the Tagus River and the city of Lisbon from potential invasions by enemy forces. During the Age of Discovery, Portugal was a seafaring nation, and the Tagus River was a vital gateway to the Atlantic Ocean. The tower was strategically placed at the mouth of the river, providing a key defense point against potential attacks from the sea. It served as a fortress, customs house, and a beacon to guide ships safely into the harbor.
Jeronimos Monastery
Jeronimos Monastery is Manueline architecture and was built in the early 16th century. The monastery was commissioned by King Manuel I to commemorate Vasco da Gama’s successful voyage to India and to give thanks to God for Portugal’s prosperity during the Age of Discovery. The monastery’s ornate façade and intricate carvings reflect the wealth and power of Portugal during this time. The monastery also played an important role in Portugal’s history as a cultural and intellectual center, attracting artists, scholars, and scientists from around the world.
Sao Jorge Castle
Sao Jorge Castle is a fortress that dates back to the 11th century. The castle was built by the Moors as a strategic defense point, and later served as a royal palace until the 16th century. The castle played an important role in Portugal’s history, as it was used as a military stronghold during the country’s struggles for independence from Muslim rule. In the 14th century, King John I made Sao Jorge Castle his official residence and ordered its restoration and expansion, adding several towers and other defensive features.
Alfama District
Alfama is one of the most historic districts in Lisbon. I read that it was likely founded by the Visigoths in the 5th century, and later occupied by the Moors during the 8th century. The district is known for its narrow, winding streets, steep staircases, and colorful buildings that date back to medieval times. The architecture of Alfama reflects the city’s long and diverse history, with a mix of styles that include Roman, Gothic, and Moorish. Alfama was largely spared from the devastating earthquake that struck Lisbon in 1755, and as a result, many of its historic buildings and landmarks have been preserved.
Sintra
Sintra is a town located just outside of Lisbon that is known for its stunning palaces, gardens, and landmarks. The town has history that dates back to the Roman Empire, and it was later occupied by the Moors during the 8th and 9th centuries. Sintra was also a favored summer retreat for Portuguese royalty and nobility, who built magnificent palaces and estates throughout the town. The most famous of these is the Palacio da Pena, which was built in the 19th century and is known for its eclectic mix of architectural styles, including Gothic, Renaissance, and Moorish. The town of Sintra also played an important role in Portugal’s history as a cultural and intellectual center, attracting artists, writers, and thinkers from around the world.