Portugal - Lisbon

Lisbon - March 2001

Baixa

The Baixa (pronounced bye-sha) is the heart of Lisbon, designed by the Marquês de Pombal in a classical grid pattern after the great earthquake. Many of it's streets are pedestrianised making it a fine place for a stroll.

Baixa from the Elevador de Santa Justa

Tram at the Sé (Cathedral)

Alfama
When in Lisbon you must not miss taking a ride on tram 28. It winds exquisitely up and down the narrow hills that make up the Alfama district.
Tram 28	São Vicente de Fora Inside

Praça do Comércio
The Great Earthquake of 1755 flattened Lisbon's city centre, the rebuilding following it created the Baixa, the centrepiece of Pombal's design, however, was the Praça do Comércio, a great square by the river, surrounded by classical royal and public buildings.

Parque das Nações
	The Parque das Nações is the former site of Expo 98, it shows what can, and should be done with such sites after their original usage is passed. Both the Olympic site at Atlanta, and the Dome in London could learn a thing or two by looking here. There are several attractions, including the cable car (left) but the Oceanarium is the best with a massive central fish tank, and also excellent above water ecosystem recreations.
	Fish Tank	Jellyfish	Penguins

Elavadores
Santa Justa	Lisbon's vintage Elavadores vary in style from funicular like trams to the Santa Justa (left) which is a lift. They transport passengers to Bairro Alto, the upper town, and are worth it just for the ride. Glória	Bica

Belém
Torre de Belém	Belém is home to the Mosteiro dos Jerónimos (built 1502), it survived the great earthquake which left it as Lisbon's finest Manueline building. The Torre or tower, also in the Manueline style, used to stand in the centre of the estuary guarding the entrance to the port of Lisbon. An earthquake in 1770 altered the course of the Tejo, and it now stands only a few feet away from land.