Lisbon and the Tagus River go hand in hand, a setting that always makes you feel like you’re in one of the most beautiful cities in the world. It’s a place loved by locals and admired by tourists. A city with life, but with centuries of history. Let’s find out some of the best Lisbon monuments?
We’ve already taken you on a medieval route outside Lisbon, but now it’s time to travel back in time to the capital. However, there’s room for everything in our guide, including some very old attractions (and some not so old). Take note of our suggestions.
Lisbon monuments you must visit:
1 – St. George’s Castle
Lisbon is the city of seven hills and in every corner you can feel the essence that has inspired so many poets and composers.
And it is precisely on top of one of these hills that the St. George’s Castle, one of the main protagonists of the city’s postcards.
Classified as a National Monument since 1910, has a very old history. It is said that the walls were actually built between the 17th and 18th centuries. VII and XI. However, the first fortification to be built existed before that.
In 1147, with the conquest of Lisbon from the Moors by King Afonso Henriques, the Castle of São Jorge passed into the hands of the Kingdom of Portugal. There was then a golden period, which lasted until the beginning of the century. XVI.
Throughout its history, the Castle has undergone various interventions and at the beginning of the century. XX was very dilapidated.
This bleak scenario led to extensive renovation work between 1938 and 1940. Because of its past and present, but also its future, this is definitely one of the must-see monuments on any visit to the capital.
Address: Rua de Santa Cruz do Castelo
2 – Lisbon Cathedral
Located in Largo da Sé, the Lisbon Cathedral, or Church of Santa Maria Maior (as it is also known), has been classified as a National Monument since 1910.
This religious temple is the seat of the Lisbon Patriarchate and the Sé Parish. Its construction dates back to the century. XII and is therefore one of the city’s oldest historical symbols.
Today, the Lisbon Cathedral is a mixture of architectural styles. In other words, you can find details of the Romanesque style, but also of the Baroque and Neoclassical styles.
Inside you can find archaeological excavations, in the Gothic cloister, which reveal evidence dating back some three thousand years.
One of the most beautiful Lisbon monuments that everyone should visit, without a doubt, at least once in their lives.
Address: Largo da Sé
3 – National Pantheon
National Pantheon is the final resting place of some of the greatest personalities in Portuguese history.
The building was constructed in the second half of the 19th century. XVI, but was completely reformulated at the end of the century. XVII.
However, the building was only completed in the middle of the century. XX, due to various reasons such as, the earthquake of 1755.
This is one of the most iconic Lisbon monuments and offers breathtaking views over the city and the Tagus River.
Address: Campo de Santa Clara
4 – Roman Theater
Lisbon’s history is so rich that it allows us to travel through different periods. We’ve already talked about the Moorish presence, but now it’s time to highlight the time of the Romans.
Located in the historic area, the Roman Theater was built during the time of Emperor Augustus, in the 19th century. I, having been remodeled during the time of Nero, in the year 57 AD. (after Christ).
Currently part of the Lisbon Museum, is one of the most important monuments of Felicitas Iulia Olisipo.
Address: Rua de São Mamede 3A (Praça de Espanha)
5 – Ajuda National Palace
Who says there are only palaces in fairy tales? In and around Lisbon there are several waiting to be discovered. But in this article we will focus in particular on the Ajuda National Palace.
Also known as the Royal Palace of Our Lady of Help, the Wooden Palace or the Royal Barracks, this building was commissioned by King José I.
However, it was with King Luís I that this palace gained greater importance, as it became the official residence of the Portuguese royal family until the end of the monarchy.
The Ajuda National Palace has been open to the public as a museum since 1968.
Today, in addition to being a faithful historical reconstruction of the times of the monarchy, it still hosts the state ceremonies of the Presidency of the Portuguese Republic.
One of Lisbon’s many monuments that deserves to be visited and contemplated by everyone.
Address: Largo da Ajuda
6 – Estrela Basilica
The Basilica of Estrela, also known as the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, is one of the most important monuments of the century. XVIII, in the city of Lisbon.
The building is dominated by a Baroque style, although the central body of the façade has a neoclassical style. Its dome stands out and inside there is a nativity scene by Machado de Castro.
It should also be noted that it was once a convent of Carmelite nuns.
Address: Praça da Estrela
7 – Águas Livres Aqueduct
O Águas Livres Aqueduct was built by King João V in the 19th century. XVIII.
Classified as a National Monument in 1910, it is considered a masterpiece of engineering, given the height at which it was designed.
The building withstood the 1755 earthquake.
Without a doubt, this is one of Lisbon’s most iconic monuments.
Address: CC da Quintinha 6
Photo by @camara_municipal_lisboa
8 – Monument to the Discoveries
Also known as the Monument to the Discoveries, or the Monument to the Navigators, the Monument to the Discoveries has a prominent position facing the River Tagus.
It was first built in 1940 as part of the Portuguese World Exhibition.
But it wasn’t until two decades later, in 1960, that it was rebuilt with concrete and rosal stone from Leiria. The interior was only remodeled in 1985.
Address: Avenida Brasília
9 – Tower of Belém
A Tower of Belém is not only one of Lisbon’s ex-libris, but also one of Portugal’s most famous national monuments.
It was built in 1515 and is one of the symbols of the Manueline period.
In 1983, the Belém Tower was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is also one of the 7 Wonders of Portugal.
So there’s no shortage of reasons to visit this Lisbon monument. When you climb to the top of the Tower, you’ll be treated to an extra treat: a breathtaking view.
Address: Avenida Brasília
10 – Jerónimos Monastery
The Jerónimos Monastery is one of top Lisbon monuments. Built in the 19th century. XVI, The Jerónimos Monastery is, together with the Belém Tower, one of the great symbols of the Discoveries and the Manueline era.
Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983, it is also the “final resting place” of two important figures in our history: Luís de Camões and Vasco da Gama.
The Jerónimos Monastery is also one of the 7 Wonders of Portugal, after being chosen in 2007, in a vote involving many thousands of Portuguese.
If you haven’t visited yet, book a place in your diary. After all, this is one of Lisbon’s monuments that you have to see at least once in your life.
Address: Praça do Império
11 – Former Carmo Convent
Located in Rossio, the former Convento do Carmo is now one of the must-sees in this part of the city.
With the earthquake of 1755, the building was ruined and the old church is now the headquarters of the Carmo Archaeological Museum. The rest of the building currently belongs to the GNR General Command.
In the case of the Museu Arqueológico do Carmo, you can experience the beauty and aesthetics of the ruin up close and personal with the refurbishment it has undergone.
At the same time, you can travel back in time from prehistoric times to medieval times. A real journey of knowledge.
Address: Largo do Carmo, 27
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