Lisbon and the Tagus River go hand in hand, a setting that makes us feel like we are in one of the most beautiful cities in the world. It is a place loved by locals and admired by tourists. A city full of life, but with centuries of history, to which Lisbon’s many monuments are a direct testimony.
We’ve already taken you on a medieval tour outside Lisbon, but now it’s time to travel back in time in the heart of the capital. However, our guide has room for everything, from very old attractions (and others not so old). Take note of our suggestions.
The Tropical Botanical Garden is an exotic refuge in the heart of Belém. This seven-hectare space is home to more than 600 species, with a particular focus on the flora of tropical and subtropical regions.
The experience focuses on the diversity of the landscape, where the Oriental Garden stands out with its Chinese pavilion and traditional bridges, as well as the historic greenhouses. Along the paths, visitors encounter resident peacocks and much more.
Jerónimos Monastery
The Jerónimos Monastery is one of Lisbon’s biggest tourist attractions. Built in the 16th century, the Jerónimos Monastery, together with the Belém Tower, is one of the great symbols of the Age of Discovery and the Manueline era.
Classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983, it is also the final resting place of two of the most 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 people.
If you haven’t visited yet, make sure to reserve a spot in your schedule. After all, this is one of Lisbon’s monuments that you have to see at least once in your life.
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 at the top of one of these hills that São Jorge Castle emerges , one of the main features of the city’s postcards.
Classified as a National Monument since 1910, its history is very old. It is said that the walls were effectively structured between the 7th and 11th centuries. However, the first fortification built would have existed before that.
In 1147, with the conquest of Lisbon from the Moors by D. Afonso Henriques, the Castle of São Jorge passed into the hands of the Kingdom of Portugal. A golden age then ensued, which lasted until the beginning of the 16th century.
Throughout its history, the Castle has undergone several interventions and by the beginning of the 20th century it was in a state of serious disrepair. This bleak scenario led to extensive renovation work between 1938 and 1940.
Due to its past and present, but also its future, this is definitely one of the must-see monuments on any visit to the capital.
Who said that palaces only exist in fairy tales? In Lisbon and its surroundings, there are several waiting to be discovered. But in this article, we will focus in particular on the Ajuda National Palace.
Also known as Real Paço de Nossa Senhora da Ajuda, Paço de Madeira, or Real Barraca, 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.
Currently, 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 the many monuments in Lisbon that deserves to be visited and admired by everyone.
The Basilica da Estrela, also known as the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, is one of the most important monuments of the 18th century in the city of Lisbon .
The building is dominated by a Baroque style, although the central part of the façade is neoclassical. Its dome stands out, and inside there is a nativity scene by Machado de Castro.
It is also worth noting that it was once a convent for Carmelite nuns.
Located in Largo da Sé, theLisbon Cathedral,or Church of Santa Maria Maior(as it is also known), has been classified asa National Monument since 1910.
This religious temple is theseat of the Patriarchate of Lisbon and the Parish of the Cathedral. Its constructiondates back tothe 12th century,making it one of the oldest historical symbols of the city.
This religious temple is theseat of the Patriarchate of Lisbon and the Parish of the Cathedral. Its constructiondates back tothe 12th century,making it one of the oldest historical symbols of the city.
Currently, Lisbon Cathedral is amixture of architectural styles.In other words, you can find details of the Romanesque style, but also Baroque and Neoclassical.
Inside,you can findarchaeological excavationsin the Gothic cloister,which reveal evidence datingback around three thousand years.
A beautiful monument thateveryone should visitat least once in their lifetime.
The National Pantheon is the final resting place of some of the greatest figures in Portuguese history.
The building was constructed in the second half of the 16th century, but was completely redesigned at the end of the 17th century.
However,the building was only completed in the mid-20th century,due to various reasons, such asthe 1755 earthquake.
It is classified asa National Monumentand offers breathtaking views of the city and the Tagus River.
Lisbon’s history is so rich that it allows us to travel through various periods. We have already talked about the Moorish presence, but now it is time to highlight the Roman period.
Located inthe historic district, the Roman Theaterwas built during the reign ofEmperor Augustus in the 1st century and was remodeled during the reign of Nero in 57 AD(after Christ).
Currently part ofthe Lisbon Museum complex,this is one of the most important monuments ofFelicitas Iulia Olisipo.
The Águas Livres Aqueduct was built by King João V in the 18th century.
Classified asa National Monumentin 1910,it is considered anengineering masterpiece,given the time when it was designed.
The building withstood the1755 earthquake. Without a doubt, this isone of Lisbon’s most iconic monuments.
Also known as the Monument to the Discoveries, or Monument to the Navigators, the Padrão dos Descobrimentos has a prominent position facing the Tagus River.
It was first built in 1940 as part of the Portuguese World Exhibition.
But it was only two decades later, in 1960, that it was rebuilt with concrete and Leiria rose stone. Its interior was only remodeled in 1985.
The Belém Tower is not only one of Lisbon’s landmarks, but also one of Portugal’s most famous national monuments.
It was built in 1515 and is one of thesymbols of the Manueline period.
In 1983, the Belém Tower was classified asa World Heritage Site by UNESCO.It is also one of the7 Wonders of Portugal.
So, there are plenty of reasons to visit this Lisbon monument. When you climb to the top of the Tower, you will be rewarded with an extra: abreathtaking view.
Former Carmo Convent
Located in Rossio, the former Carmo Convent is now one of the must-see attractions in this part of the city.
With the1755 earthquake,the building was left in ruins, and theold churchis now the headquarters ofthe Carmo Archaeological Museum.The rest of the buildingcurrently belongs tothe General Command of the GNR.
In the case of the Carmo Archaeological Museum, you can experience the beauty andaesthetics of the ruinsup close, alongside the renovation work that has been carried out.
At the same time, it is possible to travel back in timefrom prehistory to medieval times. A true journey of knowledge.
Santa Justa Elevator
The Santa Justa Elevator, also known as the Carmo Elevator, is one of Lisbon’s most emblematic monuments. Inaugurated in 1902, it was built to connect Baixa to Largo do Carmo, facilitating mobility to one of the highest areas of the city.
At a height of45 meters,from the top of the Santa Justa Elevator you can enjoy aspectacular panoramic view of Lisbon,stretching from Baixa to the Tagus River.In 2002,it was officially classified asa National Monument.