Central Portugal

About Lisbon

A naturally beautiful city which is surrounded by and set on seven steep hills (though some say eight!), Lisbon overlooks the Tagus River, the longest river in the Iberian Peninsula. Characterized by its laid-back atmosphere, Lisbon is known for vibrant culture, history, and architecture as well as for its picture-perfect panoramas.

Lisbon’s neighborhoods are comprised of steep, narrow streets which accommodate its hilly landscape, and the city’s old-world trams and cable elevators connect them. Today, Lisbon is a city of approximately 546,000 residents and is part of a metropolis which comprises close to 3 million inhabitants. Because of Lisbon’s strategic location, it has, historically, been an important seaport for trade between northern Europe and the Mediterranean Sea. Originally known as “Olisspo” after Ulysses, one of the heroes of Greek mythology, its name was changed to “El Lisbon” by the Muslims in the 8th century. In 1147, Lisbon was conquered by the Christians and, in 1255, was declared the Portuguese capital. Lisbon’s glory came in the 15th and 16th centuries when it was the center for discovery expeditions to the New World. The Manuelin style of architecture, named after King Manuel I who financed spice trade between India and Africa, developed during this period. A large earthquake in the mid-18th century destroyed most of the buildings from that time, though there are two remaining Manueline style structures - the iconic, 16th century Belem Tower (Torre de Belem), originally built on the edge of the river to protect the city, and the Jeronimos Monastery. The monastery, which was badly damaged from the earthquake but survived, is covered with white marble and stone carvings which glorify Portugal’s pioneering maritime discoveries. Inside, there are tombs and sculptures of kings and two of Portugal’s greatest heroes, Vasco de Gama, the explorer, and Luis de Camoish, Portugal’s national poet. Both structures are now UNESCO World Heritage sites. The medieval Castelo De Sao Jorge fortress stands at the top of Alfama hill, the largest of the city’s seven hills. The castle is built on 5th century Visigoth foundations as well as 9th century Moorish foundations. In the 12th century, after capturing the city from the Moors, Alfonso Enrique added to the structure. From the castle, there is a spectacular view of the city, the river, and the enormous suspension bridge, the Ponte 25 de Abril. Another famous look-out point which offers spectacular views is Edward VII Park, named after Britain’s monarch who visited the city in 1903. It is the largest park in Lisbon and extends uphill from Marques de Pombal Square to an open pavilion at the top. Alfama is the heart and soul of Lisbon - a neighborhood dating back to medieval times with a maze of cobbled alleys, hidden courtyards, charming squares, and houses with colorful tiles and iron-railed balconies. It is located at the foot of the castle and is a fun place for a stroll as well as to enjoy the city’s many fado restaurants which serve local specialties and offer fado-style music. The Terreiro do Paco (also known as Praca do Comercio), is located on the riverfront, and is known as one of the most important squares in Lisbon. It served as the royal palace for two centuries prior to being destroyed by the 1755 earthquake. Today, it is a pedestrian square from which you can reach the Tagus River. The Chiado and Bairro Alto districts are two archetypal Lisbon neighborhoods. Chiado is trendy with its celebrated cafes, bookshops, boutiques, and theaters, including Lisbon’s opera house. Bairro Alto is the center of the city’s nightlife with its many pubs, clubs, and bars. The LUX club is one of Lisbon’s most famed nightclubs and, with its total capacity of over 3000, has been a favorite spot of the rich and famous. Actor John Malkovich, who shot a movie in Portugal and fell in love with the club, is now a partial owner. The famous restaurant, Bica do Sapato (“the tip of the shoe”), is located adjacent to the club. Luis de Camoish Square, named after the national poet, connects the two districts. Avenida Da Liberdade, the "Portuguese Champs-Elysées,” is a wide boulevard with tall trees and dozens of statues lining it as well as an Egyptian pillar dedicated to Portugal’s independence. The business center of Lisbon, the street is also lined with hotels, banks, cinemas, and international brand stores. Further down the boulevard is Rossio Square with its statue of Dom Pedro IV (who was both the King of Portugal and the Emperor of Brazil) and 2 French- style fountains. Lisbon is home to world-class museums. The Museu Caloute Gulbenkain is located in a lush park and is one of the city’s gems. Much of the museum’s collection came from a wealthy Armenian oil magnate, Calouste Sarkis Gulbenkian, who endowed his vast, outstanding private art collection to Portugal before he died in 1955. The National Museum of Ancient Art is Portugal’s national gallery which houses a large collection of 15th and 16th century paintings, as well as Oriental, European, and African art. The National Tile Museum, Museu Nacional do Azulejo, houses a unique collection of decorative tiles, known as azulejos, and it traces tile-making from its Moorish and Spanish influences through the rise of Portugal’s unique style. The MAAT - Museum of Art, Architecture, and Technology - which is housed in a converted power station on the waterfront, is an outstanding new cultural center in Lisbon. The 12th century Lisbon Cathedral, located near the Alfama district, is Lisbon’s oldest and most famous church. Originally a Romanesque cathedral, the structure was destroyed in the earthquake and today it blends architectural styles. Its two bell towers are a beautiful part of the city’s skyline. The Padrão dos Descobrimentos, the Monument of the Discoveries, is located on the banks of the Tagus River estuary– the place from which ships departed for maritime discovery voyages. Designed by 2 Portuguese architects, it is a massive structure in the shape of the prow of a ship which celebrates the Portuguese explorers who established the country’s seafaring prominence. In the interior of the 170-foot high tower, there is an exhibition about the history of Lisbon, and the monument’s viewing platform offers spectacular views. The 1988 World’s Fair Expo was held in Lisbon, and the entire eastern part along the river was renovated and became a showcase for the city’s new and modern architecture. There is a new complex called Park of the Nations (Parquet das Nacoes) which includes the Oriente train station and the Vasco de Gama shopping mall. There are two large towers designed as a giant sail, and the Oceanarium is a huge, popular aquarium with over 8000 sea animals. A train transports visitors between attractions. The village of Sintra is a 30 minute train ride from Lisbon and is a not-to-be-missed day trip. Sintra was a royal resort, and it is home to extraordinary palaces, a Moorish castle, a semi tropical garden, and scenic views. With its combination of captivating tradition and modern touches, Lisbon is a popular destination – and city that many tourists long to return to!

About Nazare

Nazare, a scenic and charming coastal town on Portugal’s Silver Coast, is famous for its massive waves, laidback vibe, and beautiful beaches, and it has become a popular tourist destination – especially for surfers! The Big Waves season in Nazare is during their winter – between October and March – and the town has made headlines with its waves of close to 100 feet!

The town also boasts a maze of narrow, picturesque cobbled alleys that descend to a wide stretch of beach surrounded by cliffs, and it is home to delicious seafood restaurants serving the freshest catches. While the beach is a large part of the culture in Nazare, the town is also home to historic religious landmarks. In fact, if its name is reminiscent of the biblical city, Nazareth, you’re spot on! The town got its name because a small wooden statue of the Virgin Mary made the long journey from Nazareth to Nazare in the 8th century via monks who settled in a small cave on a cliff above the ocean. According to legend, four hundred years later, as the morning mist covered a cliff, a knight on horseback chased a light-footed doe. The doe jumped off the cliff, and the horse almost followed her until the Holy Mary appeared and stopped them from jumping to their deaths. In gratitude, the knight built a small chapel at the edge of the cliff, the Ermida Da Memoria, also known as the Chapel of Our Lady of Nazare, which was visited by several famous pilgrims, including Vaso da Gama. The current church, decorated with beautiful Dutch tiles, is a 17th century baroque monument which was built on the site of the 14th century chapel. Upper Nazare can be reached by cable car, and it is simply beautiful -especially the village of Sitio which, as a result of its high elevation of about 361 feet, offers spectacular views from all sides. The Promontorio do Sitio is the best known observation point. There is a large church in Upper Nazare, The Convent of Our Lady of Jesus, also known as the Church of the Hospital due to the hospital located next door. The church is one of the best preserved examples of Portuguese Mannerism architecture. There is an annual pilgrimage in September to Sitio, a religious festival with dancing and bullfights that is called Nossa Senhora Da Nazare. If you’re interested in festivals, Nazare’s annual Carnival draws both locals and visitors to its festivities. These include masquerade balls, colorful parades, entertainment, and other traditional revelries. The town’s Man of the Sea Festival, the Festa do Homem do Mar, is a traditional maritime procession which includes fireworks, displays of the saints who protect the local fishermen, and a flotilla of decorated boats around the port of Nazare.

About Coimbra

Coimbra, a historic riverfront city, was Portugal’s capital between the 12th and 13th centuries. It has a well-preserved medieval town, and its character is largely influenced by its world renowned academic institution, the University of Coimbra, one of the oldest universities in the world and the oldest and most prestigious in Portugal.

The university, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, had been founded in 1290 in Lisbon but was moved to Coimbra in 1537, attracting an influx of Spanish, Italian, and French artists and intellectuals. The Academy of Art and Sculpture which was established as a result of the influx left an important imprint on the country’s artistic development. The original university is located at the top of the Alta, a steep hill above the city, and it is a cluster of impressive 16th-18th century buildings which are built around a spacious square. The statue of King Joao III stands in the center of the square, and the iconic 17th century Paco das Escolas tower houses the clock and bells that play an important role in academic life. The university includes several outstanding buildings: the Chapel of Sao Miguel is known for its Manueline adornments, painted tiles, and baroque organ; the Sala dos Capelos hall is where the most noteworthy ceremonies are held; and the highlight – the famed 18th century baroque Joanine Library- is one of the largest and richest in Europe with over 300,000 books, including 5000 manuscripts, some of which date back to the 12th century. The new city of Coimbra, known as Biyasha (meaning “bottom”) is sprawled at the foot of the hill and along the river, and, with time, the university has expanded into the new urban areas. Its modern buildings attract many visitors, as well. Other notable historic landmarks in Coimbra exhibiting the splendor of Romanesque art include the Monastery of Santa Cruz in which the first King of Portugal, Alfonso Henriques, is buried; the 14th century Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Velha; and the Se Velha, the old Cathedral of Coimbra, which is considered to be one of the most beautiful examples of Romanesque architecture in Portugal. The Machado de Castro National Museum has important collections related to the history of the city, including Roman architecture. The city is also home to beautiful gardens – Choupal, Quinta das Lagrimas, and the Botanical Gardens are popular sites. Coimbra’s 25,000 students contribute to the special atmosphere of the city, and their ceremonies throughout the year are festive events which engage the whole city. The most well known is the colorful Quema Das Fitas, the ritual burning of the colored ribbons of each faculty, which celebrates the end of academic coursework. Coimbra hosts several other festivals, as well. The Festa da Rainha Santa Queen Festival is dedicated to Saint Isabella, and it is a spectacular candlelight procession which crosses the river and passes through the streets of the city. Festada Cidade involves folk music shows, folk dances, and fireworks, and the Arts Festival - Festival das Artes- includes cultural events, classical music concerts, jazz shows on river boats, culinary events by the best famous chefs, and city-wide celebrations. In short, Coimbra is a charming, lively city which is steeped in culture and history – a great destination on your trip to Portugal!

About Fatima

One of the most important places of worship in Catholic Christianity and a focus of believers and pilgrims.

On May 13, 1917, 3 rural children saw a vision of the Holy Virgin speaking to them and she foresaw the future and demanded prayer and sacrifice as a condition for peace in the world. Additional visions have since then occurred every 13th of the month and will culminate in an incomprehensible vision on the 13th of October when 70 thousand pilgrims and skeptical onlookers saw the sun spinning in the sky like a ball. This phenomenon ignited a spiritual awakening in Portugal, millions of people visit this special site mainly between May 13 and October 13. A huge church was built in 1953, a white and solemn building surrounded by columns and in the place where the visions took place, Capela Das Aoricoes was built and in front of a wide, enormous dimension where the believers gather and they reach it on a paved path that is 1 km on the knees and elbows and believe that their prayers will be answered. Inside the church are the graves of the 3 shepherd children. Another basilica was established in 2007 with the spectacular altar picture by the Irish artist Catherine Green, and a beautiful mosaic work by the Slovenian artist Marko Rupnik. At the entrance to the sacred compound is a piece of the Berlin Wall, a tribute to 'God's part in the fall of communism'. Pilgrimage tourism has developed around the place, and hundreds of stalls sell cheap religious items, candles and amulets. According to tradition, the town's name refers to a Muslim princess who lived there after the occupation, fell in love with a Christian knight, converted to Christianity and stayed.

About Evora

Evora, the capital of the Alentejo region, is a beautiful town- a museum-city – with roots dating back to Roman times. Surrounded by 14th century walls and home to narrow, winding alleys, diverse and outstanding architecture, Roman antiquities, and a picturesque central square, it is one of the best preserved and oldest towns in Portugal and has been classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Evora is also a lively university city, full of bars and excellent restaurants. 

The town’s golden age was between the 14th and 16th centuries when many educated people and artists settled there. It became the center of arts and learning as well as the seat of the archbishop, and the Jesuit University was founded there. When Spain took control of Portugal, the royal court left Evora, and the town lost much of its importance and cultural influence but much of its architecture still stands today. The heart of the city is Praca do Giraldo, named after the Christian knight “Fearless,” who, based on legend, stormed one of the watchtowers alone and conquered Evora from the Moors in the mid 12th century. In the center of the square is a famous Baroque fountain, declared a national monument, built in 1571 of white marble combined with bronze. It is decorated with 8 spouts shaped as lions with the number of spouts corresponding to the number of main streets connecting to the square, and there is a crown at the top. The square is surrounded by impressive historic buildings, cafes, and beautiful shops. Praca do Giraldo, which is beautifully illuminated after dark, is the center of Evora's nightlife. The Evora Cathedral, the Se, is a fortress-looking church dating back to the early 13th century which combines Romanesque and Gothic architectural features. It is one of the largest churches in Portugal and is adorned with two asymmetrical towers that were added later. The 12 statues of the Apostles, dating back to the 14th century, stand guard at the entrance, and there is a huge, magnificent chandelier inside. The Museum of Religious Art is housed in the connecting building, a Baroque style structure which had been home to the church’s choir boys. The museum displays rare and valuable artifacts, and there are spectacular views of the city from the top of the museum’s winding staircase. The 15th century Igreja do Sao Francisco is a huge Manueline- Gothic style structure. Connected to the church is the 16th century chapel, Capela Dos Ossos (Bone Chapel), whose interior designs are somewhat gruesome but fascinating – its walls are lined with 5000 skulls, bones, and skeletons of monks taken from a local cemetery. One of the highlights of the city – and its icon - is the relatively well-preserved Roman Temple, also known as the Temple to Diana. Thought to have been built in the 2nd or 3rd century, it is a granite base with 14 surviving columns and Corinthian capitals. The Evora Museum is housed in the former palace of the Archbishop of Evora which dates back to the 16th century. The interior is light and modern, and it displays the most diverse art collection in Portugal. The 14th century Palacio dos Duques de Cadaval, the Palace of the Dukes of Cadaval, is located at the foot of the old city wall. While it is still a private residence, there are several rooms which are open to the public and showcase valuable and fascinating family heirlooms. The Church of St. John the Evangelist, Igreja Sao Joao Evangelista, is decorated with beautiful Azulejo tiles which depict the life of the saint. Evora is an enchanting town, brimming with history, art, culture, and outstanding cuisine!

About Lisbon

A naturally beautiful city which is surrounded by and set on seven steep hills (though some say eight!), Lisbon overlooks the Tagus River, the longest river in the Iberian Peninsula. Characterized by its laid-back atmosphere, Lisbon is known for vibrant culture, history, and architecture as well as for its picture-perfect panoramas.

Lisbon’s neighborhoods are comprised of steep, narrow streets which accommodate its hilly landscape, and the city’s old-world trams and cable elevators connect them. Today, Lisbon is a city of approximately 546,000 residents and is part of a metropolis which comprises close to 3 million inhabitants. Because of Lisbon’s strategic location, it has, historically, been an important seaport for trade between northern Europe and the Mediterranean Sea. Originally known as “Olisspo” after Ulysses, one of the heroes of Greek mythology, its name was changed to “El Lisbon” by the Muslims in the 8th century. In 1147, Lisbon was conquered by the Christians and, in 1255, was declared the Portuguese capital. Lisbon’s glory came in the 15th and 16th centuries when it was the center for discovery expeditions to the New World. The Manuelin style of architecture, named after King Manuel I who financed spice trade between India and Africa, developed during this period. A large earthquake in the mid-18th century destroyed most of the buildings from that time, though there are two remaining Manueline style structures - the iconic, 16th century Belem Tower (Torre de Belem), originally built on the edge of the river to protect the city, and the Jeronimos Monastery. The monastery, which was badly damaged from the earthquake but survived, is covered with white marble and stone carvings which glorify Portugal’s pioneering maritime discoveries. Inside, there are tombs and sculptures of kings and two of Portugal’s greatest heroes, Vasco de Gama, the explorer, and Luis de Camoish, Portugal’s national poet. Both structures are now UNESCO World Heritage sites. The medieval Castelo De Sao Jorge fortress stands at the top of Alfama hill, the largest of the city’s seven hills. The castle is built on 5th century Visigoth foundations as well as 9th century Moorish foundations. In the 12th century, after capturing the city from the Moors, Alfonso Enrique added to the structure. From the castle, there is a spectacular view of the city, the river, and the enormous suspension bridge, the Ponte 25 de Abril. Another famous look-out point which offers spectacular views is Edward VII Park, named after Britain’s monarch who visited the city in 1903. It is the largest park in Lisbon and extends uphill from Marques de Pombal Square to an open pavilion at the top. Alfama is the heart and soul of Lisbon - a neighborhood dating back to medieval times with a maze of cobbled alleys, hidden courtyards, charming squares, and houses with colorful tiles and iron-railed balconies. It is located at the foot of the castle and is a fun place for a stroll as well as to enjoy the city’s many fado restaurants which serve local specialties and offer fado-style music. The Terreiro do Paco (also known as Praca do Comercio), is located on the riverfront, and is known as one of the most important squares in Lisbon. It served as the royal palace for two centuries prior to being destroyed by the 1755 earthquake. Today, it is a pedestrian square from which you can reach the Tagus River. The Chiado and Bairro Alto districts are two archetypal Lisbon neighborhoods. Chiado is trendy with its celebrated cafes, bookshops, boutiques, and theaters, including Lisbon’s opera house. Bairro Alto is the center of the city’s nightlife with its many pubs, clubs, and bars. The LUX club is one of Lisbon’s most famed nightclubs and, with its total capacity of over 3000, has been a favorite spot of the rich and famous. Actor John Malkovich, who shot a movie in Portugal and fell in love with the club, is now a partial owner. The famous restaurant, Bica do Sapato (“the tip of the shoe”), is located adjacent to the club. Luis de Camoish Square, named after the national poet, connects the two districts. Avenida Da Liberdade, the "Portuguese Champs-Elysées,” is a wide boulevard with tall trees and dozens of statues lining it as well as an Egyptian pillar dedicated to Portugal’s independence. The business center of Lisbon, the street is also lined with hotels, banks, cinemas, and international brand stores. Further down the boulevard is Rossio Square with its statue of Dom Pedro IV (who was both the King of Portugal and the Emperor of Brazil) and 2 French- style fountains. Lisbon is home to world-class museums. The Museu Caloute Gulbenkain is located in a lush park and is one of the city’s gems. Much of the museum’s collection came from a wealthy Armenian oil magnate, Calouste Sarkis Gulbenkian, who endowed his vast, outstanding private art collection to Portugal before he died in 1955. The National Museum of Ancient Art is Portugal’s national gallery which houses a large collection of 15th and 16th century paintings, as well as Oriental, European, and African art. The National Tile Museum, Museu Nacional do Azulejo, houses a unique collection of decorative tiles, known as azulejos, and it traces tile-making from its Moorish and Spanish influences through the rise of Portugal’s unique style. The MAAT - Museum of Art, Architecture, and Technology - which is housed in a converted power station on the waterfront, is an outstanding new cultural center in Lisbon. The 12th century Lisbon Cathedral, located near the Alfama district, is Lisbon’s oldest and most famous church. Originally a Romanesque cathedral, the structure was destroyed in the earthquake and today it blends architectural styles. Its two bell towers are a beautiful part of the city’s skyline. The Padrão dos Descobrimentos, the Monument of the Discoveries, is located on the banks of the Tagus River estuary– the place from which ships departed for maritime discovery voyages. Designed by 2 Portuguese architects, it is a massive structure in the shape of the prow of a ship which celebrates the Portuguese explorers who established the country’s seafaring prominence. In the interior of the 170-foot high tower, there is an exhibition about the history of Lisbon, and the monument’s viewing platform offers spectacular views. The 1988 World’s Fair Expo was held in Lisbon, and the entire eastern part along the river was renovated and became a showcase for the city’s new and modern architecture. There is a new complex called Park of the Nations (Parquet das Nacoes) which includes the Oriente train station and the Vasco de Gama shopping mall. There are two large towers designed as a giant sail, and the Oceanarium is a huge, popular aquarium with over 8000 sea animals. A train transports visitors between attractions. The village of Sintra is a 30 minute train ride from Lisbon and is a not-to-be-missed day trip. Sintra was a royal resort, and it is home to extraordinary palaces, a Moorish castle, a semi tropical garden, and scenic views. With its combination of captivating tradition and modern touches, Lisbon is a popular destination – and city that many tourists long to return to!

Central Portugal

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