Lisbon: TravelGuide

The charm of the Portuguese capital resides in its strong links to the past; restored palaces, majestic churches and an imposing hilltop castle reflect the city's rich cultural heritage. The main tourist sites: Belém : The entire area of Belem is closely associated with the Portuguese Age of... More

The charm of the Portuguese capital resides in its strong links to the past; restored palaces, majestic churches and an imposing hilltop castle reflect the city's rich cultural heritage. The main tourist sites: Belém : The entire area of Belem is closely associated with the Portuguese Age of Discovery. The natural harbor made it an ideal launching point for the exploratory voyages which turned Portugal into a major economic force. These days, though, it hardly seems possible Portugal was once a dominant world power. Her global influence has waned, but the Portuguese people remain justly proud of their sea-faring heritage and it shows. The former prosperity has been transformed into a more subtle, enduring quality. Praça Ribeira : Avenida 24 de Julho, Cais do Sodré, 1200 Metro Cais do Sodré. Open 6am-2pm Mon-Sat. No credit cards.Within its imposing domed building, the Mercado da Ribeira is a functional affair, so expect to dodge men carrying half a cow on their shoulders. Igreja de Sao Roque : Museu de São Roque/Igreja de São Roque - the Jesuits founded St. Roque Church in the late 16th century. Beneath its painted wood ceiling, the church contains a celebrated chapel by Luigi Vanvitelli honoring John the Baptist. Less