so much, so nearportugalconsulatechicago.com/lisbon.pdf · you to discover it and pass this way. a...

01

SO MUCH, SO NEARLisbon region

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There is a road to follow. A sensation on turning the corner. A heart

that beats in the cobblestones, in the waters of the rivers and the

sea, in the golden sands that stretch beyond the horizon, in the

unequalled white light that splashes against the buildings, in the

people that live here, in their life stories.

Unique and unforgettable experiences, for those who love the

countryside, for those that prefer the city, for those looking for

monuments, for those looking for nature, for those who travel with

all their senses open. A rich, diverse and inviting trail. Waiting for

you to discover it and pass this way.

A unique itinerAry, mAde by you

S O M U C H , S O N E A R

LEIRIA

ÓBIDOS

FÁTIMA

SETÚBAL

SINTRA

MAFRA

LISBOA

TOMAR

TRÓIA

SANTARÉM

ESTORIL

OEIRAS

CASCAIS

ERICEIRA

PENICHE

NAZARÉ

A1

A8

A8

A5

A1

A15

A21

A23

IC3

N113

A13

A8

SESIMBRA

ALCOBAÇA

BATALHA

ContentSLisboa 03Estoril/Cascais 06Sintra 08Oeiras/Mafra 10Ericeira 11Oeste 12Fátima 14Templários 16Santarém 18Setúbal/Tróia 20Gastronomy 22Contacts 23World Heritage 24Nature and Natural Parks 26

Lisbon is like a patchwork quilt. A big city, stitched together

from assorted landscapes, architectures and lifestyles. And if a

city’s soul is to be found in its people and its places, it only makes

sense to start our trip at St. George’s Castle. This first Muslim

defensive building dates from the 10th and 11th Centuries. In

1147 the castle and the city were taken from the Moors by D.

Afonso Henriques the first King of Portugal.

Drop down to the Alfama, one of the most iconic of Lisbon’s

neighbourhoods. Here you will find the Fado Museum and

numerous fado houses and restaurants, where you can dine

while listening to this centuries-old national song, always

typical and always up to date.

Beating a path into the heart of the city, you eventually come

to the Pombaline Down Town, built on the orders of the Marquis

do Pombal, Minister to D. José I, after the great earthquake

of the 1st of November 1755. Laid out in a grid of streets and

blocks and inspired by the Enlightenment, the rebuilding of

the Down Town was the first example of standardised planning

and construction. One highlight is the amazing Santa Justa

Elevator, built by Mesnier du Ponsard, supposedly an apprentice

of Gustave Eiffel.

Ascending, you find yourself in Chiado, a cultural hub with a

sophisticated air where artists, intellectuals and poets meet and

mingle (there is a statue of the famous Fernando Pessoa at table

in front of “A Brasileira”), and next to this, Carmo. The square

here was an important arena for the revolution of the 25th of

April 1974, when soldiers and citizens surrounded the barracks.

Right next door are the ruins of the Carmo Convent, now the

Archaeological Museum.

Going on up, the walk takes you to the Bairro Alto, the Mecca

of the young and Lisbon’s nightlife. This is a place where the

old and the new, the traditional and the sophisticated live in

harmony. Grocer’s shops, little eateries and fado houses rub

shoulders with bars, boutiques and designer stores, in a melting

pot of people and styles all of its own.


HiStoriC Centre

03

THE OLDALWAYS NEW

REGIÃO SETÚBAL REGIÃO SANTARÉM REGIÃO TEMPLÁRIA REGIÃO LEIRIA

REGIÃO ÓBIDOSREGIÃO SINTRA REGIÃO CASCAIS REGIÃO LISBOA

PARQUE DAS NAÇÕES

REGIÃO MAFRA

SETÚBALPARQUE NATURAL

DA ARRÁBIDA

A2

SESIMBRA

TRÓIA

A1

A15

A1

SANTARÉM

A13

GOLEGÃALMOUROL

CONSTÂNCIA

TOMAR

RESERVA NATURALPAÚL DO BOQUILOBO

GRUTASMIRA D’AIRE

A1

BARRAGEMCASTELO DO BODE

LEIRIA

FÁTIMA

A8

A1

A8

BATALHA

A5

MARINA

MARGINAL

PRAIADO GUINCHO

CABODA ROCA

PRAIA GRANDE

PRAIA DAS MAÇÃS

AZENHASDO MAR

CASTELO

BAIXACHIADO

BELÉM

A8A8

A15

NAZARÉ

ALCOBAÇA

PENICHE

SANTA CRUZ

ÓBIDOS

MAFRA

ERICEIRA

PRAIA DE RIBEIRA D’ILHAS

TAPADA DE MAFRA

ESTORILCASCAIS

SINTRA

PARQUE NATURALDAS SERRAS DE AIRE

E CANDEEIROS

SÃO PEDRO DE MOEL

IC19

A21

A21

N113

IC3

LISBOA

beLÉm

IT IS THE SEA CALLING US

Departure point for other lands, Belém stands witness to ages old

influences and trades that persist into the future. It is the river that

leads us to the sea. It is the sea that calls us. From here the caravels

departed en route to Eastern shores, with their scents of pepper and

saffron.

It was the arrival in India that led to the construction of what is

probably the most emblematic monument of the era of the Discoveries

– the Jerónimos Monastery. Construction was started in 1501 on the

orders of D. Manuel I but only completed 100 years later. This ultimate

witness to the Portuguese-ness of the 16th Century boasts late Gothic

and Renaissance elements alongside regal, religious, naturalist and

nautical motifs. The result is unrivalled beauty and grandeur that

makes it worthy of its UNESCO classification as a World Heritage Site.

Inside, the Church of St. Mary of Belém (Bethlehem) is a shrine in the

form of a magnificent three-nave temple. The height of the building,

with its elegant pillars rising to a beautiful ribbed vault, and the rays

of light that surreptitiously slip in through the stained glass windows

create a unique atmosphere, marked by the meeting of the human and

the spiritual. Here you can find the tombs of the navigator Vasco da

Gama and the epic poet, bard of the Discoveries saga, Luís de Camões.

But the meeting and exchanges between cultures and people are not

things of the past. They carry on happening and are brought

up-to-date, every day, in the daily life of the city and its artistic events,

like those taking place at the Belém Cultural Centre (CCB).

Our outing to Belém is halfway through. Take a break to enjoy one of

the greatest delights of Portuguese sweet-making – the famous Belém

Pastry, a centuries old recipe reproduced in the thousands every day.

With your appetite appeased, carry on to the riverside. On the other

side of the railway line, lapped by the water, lies the Belém Tower, a

monument created in the 16th Century by Francisco Arruda which

marks the starting place of the saga; the ships departed from the small

beach here. Its architecture mixes Arab and Venetian influences in its

verandas and galleries, organically and nautically decorated in the

hallmark of the Manueline style.

Next to the small Belém marina is the Monument to the Discoveries.

Erected in 1960 to mark the 500th anniversary of the death of the

Infante D. Henrique, it pays homage to the main driving force behind

Portuguese maritime expansion and all those who helped to make it

possible.

04


PURE LEISURE

The East has given rise to a new Lisbon, with its modern infrastructures,

open horizons and an intimate relationship with the River Tejo.

Once an industrial zone, the Park of Nations was completely

renovated before Expo 98 was hosted here. Today, it is a new city

neighbourhood, with its own life and a unique offering in terms of

culture, services, sport, entertainment and leisure.

The biggest attraction is the Lisbon Oceanarium. Designed by the

North-American architect Peter Chermayeff, the building, built over

a dock and surrounded by water, shows off the natural wealth of the

flora and fauna of the Antarctic and tropical Indian Oceans as well as

of the rocky coasts of the Pacific and North Atlantic. The main draw is

the central tank, a magnificent 1,000m2 aquarium holding over 100

different species of fish from the four corners of the oceans, all living

peacefully together.

Leaving the oceans behind, you can continue your adventure in the

Pavilion of Knowledge, an interactive museum that teaches science

to both the young and the not so young in an accessible and fun way.

Here there are huge themed exhibitions and a multimedia space with

a cybercafé.

You can get around this huge park by train or bus. On your route

you’ll find a breezy architecture like the Portugal Pavilion designed

by Siza Vieira, with its imposing concrete canopy based on the idea of a

sheet of paper resting on two bricks. If you want, you can see the whole

area and its surroundings from on high by taking a trip on the cable car.

And, to see Lisbon from another perspective, you can also take a boat

trip down the Tejo.

At the end of the afternoon, there is nothing better than a spot of

shopping in the Shopping Mall, or in the various stores scattered around

and about, and then dinner and entertainment in any of the restaurants

and bars in the area. Your night might finish off at the Casino Lisboa,

with its non-stop shows and the chance to try your luck.

PArque dAS nAçõeS

05


eStoriL/CASCAiS

06

ONE PLACE

A THOUSAND SENSATIONS


The river slowly gives way to the sea and new landscapes are

revealed. At the entry to the Tejo estuary the Bugio Fort appears with

its perfectly circular shape, protecting access from the sea to the city

of Lisbon, Pass Carcavelos with its Fort de S. Julião da Barra and its

popular long open beach, ideal for surf and body-boarding.

Arriving at Estoril, the horizon opens up and reveals, from its right

side, the famous Casino, the largest in Europe, a centre not just for

gaming but also for shows, exhibitions and non-stop entertainment. At

the end of the casino’s avenue, lined by magnificent bijou palaces, is

Tamariz Beach which takes you back in time as you imagine life in the

1920s, when the aristocracy and bourgeoisie came from around Europe

to bathe here.

Continuing your journey you come to Cascais, a place of fusions and

contrasts. Walk through the elegant and picturesque historic centre

and take a moment to rest your gaze on the never-ending comings and

goings of the pleasure boats housed in the town’s marina. The coast

that links Estoril to Cascais is a special place for practising water sports.

But the sea beckons. Heed its summons and carry on to the Mouth

of Hell, a rocky outcrop that forms a cavity open to the skies(like a

mouth), where the sea waves hammer the rock in a spectacular display.

End the trip along the coast at the famous Guincho beach, unique in its

characteristics: the Sintra mountains behind it, the sweep of pine trees

and dunes, the hard wind and the savage sea that make it a windsurfing

paradise.

07




PARQUE DAS NAÇÕES

REGIÃO MAFRA


DA ARRÁBIDA

A2

SESIMBRA

TRÓIA

A1

A15

A1

SANTARÉM

A13

GOLEGÃALMOUROL

CONSTÂNCIA

TOMAR


GRUTASMIRA D’AIRE

A1


LEIRIA

FÁTIMA

A8

A1

A8

BATALHA

A5

MARINA

MARGINAL

PRAIADO GUINCHO

CABODA ROCA

PRAIA GRANDE

PRAIA DAS MAÇÃS

AZENHASDO MAR

CASTELO

BAIXACHIADO

BELÉM

A8A8

A15

NAZARÉ

ALCOBAÇA

PENICHE

SANTA CRUZ

ÓBIDOS

MAFRA

ERICEIRA


TAPADA DE MAFRA

ESTORILCASCAIS

SINTRA


E CANDEEIROS

SÃO PEDRO DE MOEL

IC19

A21

A21

N113

IC3

LISBOA

SintrA

CAPITAL OFROMANTICISM

08


09

Sintra is a mysterious place, where the climate, history and nature

invite introspection, art, dreams and fantasy. Journey into its heart and

feel in your own the magic of a unique place classified by UNESCO, in

1995, as a World Heritage Site in the Cultural Landscape Category.

In the centre of the old town lies the Royal Palace (The Sintra

National Palace). Inside, there is a hugely rich range of mudejar-

style tiles brought from around the Islamic world and the astonishing

Swan’s, Pega’s and Coats-of Arms’ Rooms.

The journey continues to Lawrence’s Hotel, the first hotel in

the Iberian Peninsula and in operation since 1780. Here, notable

Portuguese and foreign literary figures have stayed, including Lord

Byron, Camilo Castelo Branco and Eça de Queirós.

You next stop is Quinta da Regaleira, a place shrouded in mystery.

Reportedly dating back to 1697, it changed hands many times until it

was bought by the millionaire António Augusto de Carvalho Monteiro.

He invited the Italian architect Luigi Manini to design the house and

gardens we see today. The result is an exuberant riot of styles spread

across numerous spaces and structures (gardens, wells, towers,

statues, grottos, lakes) which many believe have alchemic and sacred

connotations.

Be amazed by the Palaces of Seteais and Monserrate as well. In the

first of these, now a luxury hotel, look out for the arch surmounted by

the royal coat-of-arms and the effigies of D. João and D. Carlota Joaquina

as well as the 18th Century paintings, furniture and decorations. In

Monserrate the palace’s architecture is heavily influenced by Eastern

styles and there is an exotic garden with species from the hidden

corners of the world. A “glorious Eden” in the words of Lord Byron.

Climb on up the mountain until you come to the Castle of the

Moors, also wrapped in mystery. Early documentary evidence shows

that it was an Islamic stronghold, with some authors dating its

foundation back to the times of the Visigoths.

Continue your magical journey and you will eventually find yourself,

on one of the mountain peaks, at the remarkable and fantastical Pena

Palace. Dreamt up by D. Fernando II, the Artist-King, this colourful

building looks like it is straight out of a fairy tale, an ultimate expression

of Portuguese Romanticism.




PARQUE DAS NAÇÕES

REGIÃO MAFRA


DA ARRÁBIDA

A2

SESIMBRA

TRÓIA

A1

A15

A1

SANTARÉM

A13

GOLEGÃALMOUROL

CONSTÂNCIA

TOMAR


GRUTASMIRA D’AIRE

A1


LEIRIA

FÁTIMA

A8

A1

A8

BATALHA

A5

MARINA

MARGINAL

PRAIADO GUINCHO

CABODA ROCA

PRAIA GRANDE

PRAIA DAS MAÇÃS

AZENHASDO MAR

CASTELO

BAIXACHIADO

BELÉM

A8A8

A15

NAZARÉ

ALCOBAÇA

PENICHE

SANTA CRUZ

ÓBIDOS

MAFRA

ERICEIRA


TAPADA DE MAFRA

ESTORILCASCAIS

SINTRA


E CANDEEIROS

SÃO PEDRO DE MOEL

IC19

A21

A21

N113

IC3

LISBOA

Mafra is a place of History, with many stories to tell.

In the centre of the town rises the imposing Royal Convent of

Mafra. This most important example of Portuguese baroque was built

in the first half of the 18th Century on the orders of D. João V and under

the guiding hand of João Frederico Ludovice who brought to Mafra a

design based on papal Rome with a number of Germanic influences.

The monument consists of a Basilica, a Royal Palace, a Franciscan

Convent and an important library containing over 40,000 books.

Its story inspired the novel “Memory of the Convent” written by the

Portuguese Nobel Laureate for Literature, José Saramago. Sporadically

inhabited, it served as residence for the royal family throughout 1807,

during the reign of D. João VI and before the court departed for Brazil.

If you take the road to Ericeira, and following directions to “Tapada

de Mafra” (Mafra Forest), you will happen upon an area of almost pure

naturalness.

With an area of 1,187 hectares, the Royal Forest at Mafra was created

in 1747 with the idea of providing D. João V and his court a space for

entertainment and leisure. Until the beginning of the 20th Century it

was reserved as a hunting ground for the Portuguese monarchs, but

then, after 1914, it was managed in a more environmentally friendly

way. Today its doors are open to the public and for school and business

events. Inside its whitewashed brick walls lives a diverse range of

animals and plants. On train journeys, walks or BTT trails you can spot

protected birds such as Bonelli’s eagle and the eagle owl and observe

numerous mammals including fallow deer, red deer, wild boar, foxes,

wild rabbits, badgers and polecats.

After all this exercise, why not relax over an excellent meal that

includes the famous Mafra Bread.

10

mAfrA

Occupied since prehistoric times, Oeiras has followed a rich and

evolving path through time. After serving as a storage depot and an

industrial and processing centre, particularly during the time of the

Discoveries (the Gunpowder Factory harks back to these times), the

place has grown and, since the 19th Century, has taken on the mantle

of a summer leisure destination for many Portuguese. In addition to its

beaches, much sought after by Lisbonites, there is also the grandiose

Ocean Pool next to the Torre beach. After a refreshing dip, journey into

the town. Old Oeiras is a welcoming place that invites you to wander

around, to dawdle in its green spaces and to discover its fascinating

architectural heritage. Within this latter category, special mention must

go to the Palace of the Marquês de Pombal. Its architectural design by

Carlos Mardel reflects the architecture of the 18th Century, particularly

in its gardens which were largely modelled on those at Versailles. The

Chapel dedicated to Our Lady of Mercy is also well worth a visit.

oeirAS


REGIÃO OEIRAS

OEIRAS

Oceanicswimming pool

ALGÉS

LISBOA

11

eriCeirAThe seaside breeze invites healthy walks, sunbathing, sports and

intriguing discoveries in the town of Ericeira.

Presumably frequented and settled by the Phoenicians, Ericeira is an

ancient place whose first charter, granted by D. Frei Fernão Rodrigues

Monteiro, Grandmaster of the Oder of Avis, dates back to 1229.

Walk through the characteristic streets of this town and discover the

peaceful and welcoming way of being and lifestyle of its people. You can

smell the sea here, and it is the sea that reaches your table in a variety of

fresh fish and seafood cooked with all the mastery gained from centuries-

long experience.

Head to the beaches. From the authentic and best known South beach

to the wilder Orelheira beach, Ericeira can offer sand and sea for all tastes.

There are beaches favoured by surfers, such as Pedra Branca and Algodio

and, above all, Ribeira D’Ilhas, the Mecca of European surfing. Here,

thousands of surfers come from all over the world in an unending process

of experience swapping, all year round and particularly during the world

championships.

And because Ericeira is much more than beach and surf, don’t miss one

of the many fairs and festivals held in this traditional town: the Santiago

Fair (25th of July on the Campo de S. Sebastião), the Feast of Our Lady

of Good Journey (on the Sunday closest to August 20th); the Feast of

the Holy Family (in August in Fonte Boa dos Nabos) and the Feast of Our

Lady of the Conception (8th of December).


LISBOA



PARQUE DAS NAÇÕES

REGIÃO MAFRA


DA ARRÁBIDA

A2

SESIMBRA

TRÓIA

A1

A15

A1

SANTARÉM

A13

GOLEGÃALMOUROL

CONSTÂNCIA

TOMAR


GRUTASMIRA D’AIRE

A1


LEIRIA

FÁTIMA

A8

A1

A8

BATALHA

A5

MARINA

MARGINAL

PRAIADO GUINCHO

CABODA ROCA

PRAIA GRANDE

PRAIA DAS MAÇÃS

AZENHASDO MAR

CASTELO

BAIXACHIADO

BELÉM

A8A8

A15

NAZARÉ

ALCOBAÇA

PENICHE

SANTA CRUZ

ÓBIDOS

MAFRA

ERICEIRA


TAPADA DE MAFRA

ESTORILCASCAIS

SINTRA


E CANDEEIROS

SÃO PEDRO DE MOEL

IC19

A21

A21

N113

IC3

LAND OF VINEYARDS AND SEA

oeSte

12


The Oeste (west) is a diverse, rich region lying between the solid rock

of the Serra de Montejunto and the waters of the Atlantic Ocean.

Óbidos is the jewel in the crown of this region. Walk down the

streets within the castle walls and give yourself over to discovering this

medieval town, also known as the “Town of Queens” due to the habit

Portuguese kings had of giving it to their spouses as a wedding gift.

Visit its churches and chapels and admire the works of Josefa of

Óbidos and his father Baltazar Gomes Figueira, noted painters of the

Portuguese Baroque. And, before you leave, don’t forget to try the

famous “ginjinha”, a delicious local liqueur.

Follow the path of history towards the Monastery of Alcobaça.

Founded in 1178 through a donation promised by D. Afonso Henriques

to the Order of Cister for the capture of Santarém from the Moors.

The first examples of the gothic in Portugal are to be found inside, in

the magnificent sculpted medieval tombs of D. Pedro I and D. Inês de

Castro, protagonists in the most beautiful of Portuguese love stories.

Next, head off to the sea, dawdle on the sands and take in typical

beaches like Nazaré, with Sítio proudly perching above, or the more

cosmopolitan São Martinho do Porto, ideal for children with its calm

water bay.

Go down the coast as far as Peniche, the westernmost city in

continental Europe, land of fishermen, where the sea is brought to the

table in dishes such as fish stew or the celebrated steamed lobster. Here

the imposing Peniche Fort, used as a prison during the dictatorship,

is now a museum. In the far distance you can make out the Berlengas

archipelago, a nature reserve given over to bird nesting and more than

80 species of flora, 4 of which are endemic to the islands. Finish off your

tour in Santa Cruz, the Queen of Western Beaches, much sought after

with its cosmopolitan air.

Just like the sea, the Wine Route is another exploratory delight.

13


LISBOA



PARQUE DAS NAÇÕES

REGIÃO MAFRA


DA ARRÁBIDA

A2

SESIMBRA

TRÓIA

A1

A15

A1

SANTARÉM

A13

GOLEGÃALMOUROL

CONSTÂNCIA

TOMAR


GRUTASMIRA D’AIRE

A1


LEIRIA

FÁTIMA

A8

A1

A8

BATALHA

A5

MARINA

MARGINAL

PRAIADO GUINCHO

CABODA ROCA

PRAIA GRANDE

PRAIA DAS MAÇÃS

AZENHASDO MAR

CASTELO

BAIXACHIADO

BELÉM

A8A8

A15

NAZARÉ

ALCOBAÇA

PENICHE

SANTA CRUZ

ÓBIDOS

MAFRA

ERICEIRA


TAPADA DE MAFRA

ESTORILCASCAIS

SINTRA


E CANDEEIROS

SÃO PEDRO DE MOEL

IC19

A21

A21

N113

IC3

fátimA

WITNESSESTO NATURE AND FAITH

14

The Leiria/Fátima region promises a discovery experience for

both the body and soul.

Steep yourself in nature in the Serras de Aire e Candeeiros

Natural Park. Here there are around 35,000 hectares of majestic

landscapes, sites of natural interest and excellent conditions for

practising a variety of sports. In the paleontological quarry of

Pedreira do Galinha there is a unique Jurassic trail, the oldest

recorded sauropod footsteps in the Iberian Peninsula. And the

subterranean world of the Mira de Aire caves, carved out over

time by water, stretches for hundreds of metres revealing an

impressive array of stalactites and stalagmites.

The mysteries of nature prepare the soul for the adventure

of faith evident in the Sanctuary of Fátima. Here, Our Lady

appeared 5 times, the first of which was on the 13th of May

1917, to the three young shepherds Lúcia, Francisco and

Jacinta. Over the years the shrine has grown both in size and

in the number of pilgrims who travel here from increasingly

distant places.

On the 6th of August 1918 construction was started, with

the offerings of the faithful, on a small chapel, the Chapel of

the Apparitions. Ten years later, the first stone was laid for

the Basilica and in 2007 the Church of the Holy Trinity was

inaugurated.


With your soul replete, continue on your voyage of discovery

through Portugal’s history. The Convent of Santa Maria da Vitória

(better known as the Monastery of Batalha) awaits your visit,

imposing, beautiful and mysterious. This great late Portuguese

gothic monument, a UNESCO World Heritage site, was commissioned

by D. João I in 1388 in gratitude for the victory over the Castilians at

the Battle of Aljubarrota.

Now it is time to pamper your body at the Monte Real Baths, a

centre of relaxation and wellbeing, with its offer of classic thermal

and spa treatments complemented by the nearby pure air and leafy

landscape of the Leiria Pine Forest.

A few km away, beaches of rare beauty such as S. Pedro de Moel

invite you to finish your day in the best possible way – at the seaside

enjoying fresh fish.


15

LISBOA



PARQUE DAS NAÇÕES

REGIÃO MAFRA


DA ARRÁBIDA

A2

SESIMBRA

TRÓIA

A1

A15

A1

SANTARÉM

A13

GOLEGÃALMOUROL

CONSTÂNCIA

TOMAR


GRUTASMIRA D’AIRE

A1


LEIRIA

FÁTIMA

A8

A1

A8

BATALHA

A5

MARINA

MARGINAL

PRAIADO GUINCHO

CABODA ROCA

PRAIA GRANDE

PRAIA DAS MAÇÃS

AZENHASDO MAR

CASTELO

BAIXACHIADO

BELÉM

A8A8

A15

NAZARÉ

ALCOBAÇA

PENICHE

SANTA CRUZ

ÓBIDOS

MAFRA

ERICEIRA


TAPADA DE MAFRA

ESTORILCASCAIS

SINTRA


E CANDEEIROS

SÃO PEDRO DE MOEL

IC19

A21

A21

N113

IC3

temPLárioS

MEDIEVALMAGIC AND MYSTERY

16


In Tomar, the magic of the Templars finds its heart and its

high point.

On arriving at the city, head for the centre and cross the

Roman bridge. There, next to the Nabão River, the old city awaits

you, refreshing and welcoming with its leafy parks and gardens,

narrow streets and wide-open lively squares.

Up above, the Castle looks down on all this. Go up to get a

close look at the building whose construction began in 1160,

in the reign of D. Afonso Henriques (the first King of Portugal)

and which later served as residence for the Infante D. Henrique,

Governor of the Order of Christ. The buildings consist of a double

ring of walls reinforced by semi-circular and square turrets, a

system that would have been imported by the Templars of the

East in fortifying the Holy Land.

However, the largest building in Tomar, symbol of the

Templars in Portugal and classified by UNESCO as a World

Heritage Site, is the Convent of Christ. Founded in 1162 by the

Order’s Grandmaster, Dom Gualdim Pais, it has been modified

over the years, always with splendour and grandeur in mind

so as to express the power of the Templars and Knights of

Christ, its heirs. Main highlights include the Cloisters, the 12th

Century Round Church – the Templars’ Oratorio, based on the

Roundabout of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem – and the

famous Chapter Window, later imitated at the Pena Palace.

Return to the old town and discover the Church of St. John

the Baptist, dating from the end of the 15th Century. The

Festival of the Trays, pagan in origin, is held in and around the

Praça da República every four years. Girls carry trays on their

heads loaded with bread and flowers, filling the streets with

colour and life.

Tomar was also home to a Jewish community that founded a

synagogue here in the middle of the 15th Century. In the 1920s

the building was classified as a National Monument and is today

open to the public as a Luso-Hebrew museum.

Follow the road down towards Torres Novas to discover a place

of unrivalled natural beauty. Located at the confluence of the

Almonda and Tejo Rivers, near Golegã, is the Paúl do Boquilobo

Nature Reserve – a rich habitat for plant and animal life.

The land is partially flooded for most of the year and willows

and water plants abound. Colonies of herons nest here between

April and June.

17

S O M U C H , S O N E A RREGIÃO SETÚBAL REGIÃO SANTARÉM REGIÃO TEMPLÁRIA REGIÃO LEIRIA


PARQUE DAS NAÇÕES

REGIÃO MAFRA


DA ARRÁBIDA

A2

SESIMBRA

TRÓIA

A1

A15

A1

SANTARÉM

A13

GOLEGÃALMOUROL

CONSTÂNCIA

TOMAR


GRUTASMIRA D’AIRE

A1


LEIRIA

FÁTIMA

A8

A1

A8

BATALHA

A5

MARINA

MARGINAL

PRAIADO GUINCHO

CABODA ROCA

PRAIA GRANDE

PRAIA DAS MAÇÃS

AZENHASDO MAR

CASTELO

BAIXACHIADO

BELÉM

A8A8

A15

NAZARÉ

ALCOBAÇA

PENICHE

SANTA CRUZ

ÓBIDOS

MAFRA

ERICEIRA


TAPADA DE MAFRA

ESTORILCASCAIS

SINTRA


E CANDEEIROS

SÃO PEDRO DE MOEL

IC19

A21

A21

N113

IC3

LISBOA

Santarém, the main city in the Ribatejo, awaits with its

valuable architectural heritage. With the oldest traces of

human habitation dating back to the 8th Century BC, it was an

important Roman town called Scabilis – its inhabitants are still

referred to as “Escalabitanos” today. Over the centuries history

has filled it with churches and temples, many of which are in

the gothic style. The Church of Santa Clara and the Church of

Graça are two examples of this.

Continuing your journey, pause in Almeirim to replenish your

strength with the famous Stone Soup and then go across the

marshes to Golegã, which in November, attracts people from all

over to its famous National Horse Fair. It is around here that the

thoroughbred Lusitanian horses, a pedigree valued all over the

world, are bred.

FERTILE LANDSUNIQUE CULTURE

SAntArÉm

18


On the way you can take in the various Bull Rings, like that

at Chamusca, constructed in the Arab style. Chamusca also

affords one of the most beautiful views in the Ribatejo, from the

forecourt of the Our Lady of Pranto Hermitage whose interior

is decorated with 12th and 13th Century tiles. In Casa Rural, a

re-creation of a peasant village, you can learn more about the

lives of the local population during the 1930s and 40s.

There is nothing better to finish off your trip than to watch the

sunset from Almourol Castle, a monument that was elected one

of the 7 wonders of Portugal, built on a small unexpected island,

310 metres long by 75 wide, rising from the bed of the Tejo River.

19


LISBOA



PARQUE DAS NAÇÕES

REGIÃO MAFRA


DA ARRÁBIDA

A2

SESIMBRA

TRÓIA

A1

A15

A1

SANTARÉM

A13

GOLEGÃALMOUROL

CONSTÂNCIA

TOMAR


GRUTASMIRA D’AIRE

A1


LEIRIA

FÁTIMA

A8

A1

A8

BATALHA

A5

MARINA

MARGINAL

PRAIADO GUINCHO

CABODA ROCA

PRAIA GRANDE

PRAIA DAS MAÇÃS

AZENHASDO MAR

CASTELO

BAIXACHIADO

BELÉM

A8A8

A15

NAZARÉ

ALCOBAÇA

PENICHE

SANTA CRUZ

ÓBIDOS

MAFRA

ERICEIRA


TAPADA DE MAFRA

ESTORILCASCAIS

SINTRA


E CANDEEIROS

SÃO PEDRO DE MOEL

IC19

A21

A21

N113

IC3

BLUE OVERGREEN

SetÚbAL/trÓiA

Near the capital, the region of Setúbal is the place for weekend

getaways on the beach and submersing yourself in nature.

Arriving in Setúbal, the Fort of São Filipe stands out from a

distance. In the 1960s the building was converted into a Pousada

hotel, from which you can now take in some of the best views of

the Sado Estuary.

In the middle of the Arrábida Nature Park, hidden among

the trees on the mountains’ southern slopes, you will find the

Convent of Our Lady of Arrábida. It was founded in 1538-39

when D. João de Lencastre, 1st Duke of Aveiro, ceded the Serra

da Arrábida to Frei Martinho, a Franciscan monk, for him to be

able to fulfil his dream of living a hermit’s life dedicated to Our

Lady.

Head down towards the sea. Portinho da Arrábida is a

charming beach, where the golden sands meet the turquoise

blue of the calm sea waters much sought after by divers and

sports fishermen.

20


Nearby is Arrábida Fort. Dating from the 12th Century, since

1991 it has housed an Oceanography Museum and a marine

biology centre.

On returning to Setúbal, savour the delicacies of a gastronomy

based on the sea and then explore the Sado Estuary a little

more. This nature reserve is of huge ecological importance

with its environmental conditions favouring the development

of unique flora and fauna. Take the ferry over to the Tróia

peninsula and enjoy the landscape.

On the way you may catch sight of storks or flamingos that

stopover and nest here. With a bit of luck you might even see a

family of bottlenose dolphins, emblems of this Estuary.

On arrival at Tróia, be amazed by the dunes and wild beaches

of this Peninsula which is just 17 km long and 1.5 km wide.

21


LISBOA



PARQUE DAS NAÇÕES

REGIÃO MAFRA


DA ARRÁBIDA

A2

SESIMBRA

TRÓIA

A1

A15

A1

SANTARÉM

A13

GOLEGÃALMOUROL

CONSTÂNCIA

TOMAR


GRUTASMIRA D’AIRE

A1


LEIRIA

FÁTIMA

A8

A1

A8

BATALHA

A5

MARINA

MARGINAL

PRAIADO GUINCHO

CABODA ROCA

PRAIA GRANDE

PRAIA DAS MAÇÃS

AZENHASDO MAR

CASTELO

BAIXACHIADO

BELÉM

A8A8

A15

NAZARÉ

ALCOBAÇA

PENICHE

SANTA CRUZ

ÓBIDOS

MAFRA

ERICEIRA


TAPADA DE MAFRA

ESTORILCASCAIS

SINTRA


E CANDEEIROS

SÃO PEDRO DE MOEL

IC19

A21

A21

N113

IC3

22

GAStronomy

A JOURNEY OF IRRESTIBLE FLAVOURS

To travel through Lisbon Region is also to discover an itinerary

of authentic flavours that result from the interaction of man with

his environment and the refinement of wisdom along centuries

of tradition. This is what makes the offerings to the palate

unmissable on this journey.

Starting in the capital, let yourself be won over by the fame

and by the goodness of the Belém pastries which are even more

delicious when sprinkled with sugar and cinnamon. In Sintra, try

“travesseiros” and “queijadas” to sweeten your mouth.

Whenever you find yourself near the sea you will be beckoned

by fish and seafood dishes. In Setúbal discover the traditional

fried cuttlefish, and the rich tasty stews brimming with a variety

of fish. In Peniche, don’t miss the famous steamed lobster. The

Ginjinha of Óbidos, a delicious local liqueur, is as well known as

the town itself. At the Chocolate Fair it is served up in a chocolate

cup, doubling the drinker’s pleasure with its sweet mixture of

flavours. And in Almeirim, in the region of Santarém, discover

a substantial flavoursome broth of meat and vegetables – the

famous Stone Soup.


23

touriSt informAtion PointS

ASK ME LISBOA

Lisboa WeLcome centrePraça do Comércio | Tel.: +351 210 312 810 09.00-20.00

artesanato do tejoRua do Arsenal, 25 | Tel.: +351 210 312 820 10.00 - 18.00

LISBON AIRPORTAirport Arrivals | Tel.: +351 218 450 660 07.00-24.00

PALáCIO FOzPraça dos Restauradores | Tel.: +351 213 463 314 09.00-20.00

ESTAçãO DE SANTA APOLÓNIATrain Station – International Terminal | Tel.: +351 218 821 606 08.00-13.00 | Tuesday to Saturday

RuA AuGuSTAQuiosque Augusta – Rua Augusta | Tel.: +351 213 259 131 10.00-13.00 | 14.00-18.00

BELéM Quiosque de Belém - Mosteiro dos Jerónimos | Tel.: +351 213 658 435 10.00-13.00 | 14.00-18.00 | Tuesday to Saturday

Y/LisboaRua Jardim do Regedor, 501150- 193 LisboaTel: +351 213 472 13410.00-22.00

asK me estoriLArcadas do Parque, 2769-503 EstorilTel: +351 214 687 63010.00-18.00

asK me cascaisRua Visconde da Luz, 14 / 14-A - 2750-414 CascaisTel: +351 214 822 32710.00-18.00

ASK ME ERICEIRARua Dr. Eduardo Burnay 46 - Ericeira - 2655-370 EriceiraTel: +351 261 861 09510.00-18.00

ASK me


WorLdHeritAGe

24


Leiria

Lisboa

tomar

FÁTIMA

CONVENTO DE CRISTOMOSTEIRO

DE ALCOBAÇA

MOSTEIRO DE BATALHA

ÓBIDOS

CONVENTODE MAFRA

SINTRA

OEIRASCASCAIS

ESTORIL

MOSTEIRODOS JERÓNIMOS

CONVENTODA ARRÁBIDA

SANTARÉM

TORREDE BELÉM

CASTELO DE ALMOUROL

SETÚBAL

On these roads, there are stones that speak, as monumental

witnesses, places which, through their telling of specially rare histories,

have deserved their classification as World Heritage Sites.

Embark on this voyage of discovery through Monasteries, Convents

and Fortifications that trace the path a country has carved out, the

identity of its people and the decisively important role it has played in

World History.

In Lisbon, the epic saga of the Discoveries is celebrated in unique

monuments, ultimate expressions of the Manueline style. In the

Jerónimos Monastery witness an unrivalled meeting with spirituality

and in the Belém Tower get to know this most beautiful way of

recording the departure point for an adventure.

Nearby, the Cultural Landscape of Sintra, the first centre of

Romantic architecture in Europe, an invitation to dreams and fantasies,

also deserves its UNESCO classification.

In Tomar, the glory of the Templars is magically celebrated in the

form of the Convent of Christ, a construction of unique splendour that

dates back to the time when the nation itself was founded.

Homage to the divine continues throughout the country, through

unique, grandiose and unrepeatable building projects such as the

Monastery at Alcobaça and the Convent of Santa Maria da Vitória

(better known as the Monastery of Batalha).

TELL ME STORIES 25


26


Leiria

Lisboa

tomar

FÁTIMA

ÓBIDOS

SETÚBAL

TAPADADE MAFRA

PARQUE NATURALDA ARRÁBIDA


RESERVADAS BERLENGAS

PENICHE

RESERVA DOESTUÁRIO DO SADO

PARQUE NATURALSINTRA/CASCAIS

MONSANTO

RESERVA DOESTUÁRIO DO TEJO


E CANDEEIROS

SINTRA

SANTARÉMLEZÍRIA

A trip through Lisbon and its surroundings also involves an

encounter with nature in unique Nature Parks, Protected Areas,

Estuaries and Beaches.

The Monsanto Forest Park acts as the lungs of the capital,

where Lisbonites go for walks and sports. In Sintra the Serra,

shrouded in mystery and not infrequently in fog, invites you to

go for walks, in a warm coat and comfortable shoes.

Discover the Tejo Estuary Protected zone, home to

innumerable species of water birds including stilts, avocets and

pratincoles. Adjoining Setúbal, the Arrábida Nature Park gives

protected status to over 10 hectares, Nearby the Sado Estuary

Nature Reserve has a unique ecosystem in which storks,

flamingos and dolphins all live.

In Mafra Forest you will have a unique opportunity to observe

fallow deer, red deer, wild boar, foxes and various birds of prey

in their natural habitat. And, arriving at Peniche and catching

the boat you can explore the Berlengas Nature Reserve (from

June to September).

Finally, the Serras de Aire e Candeeiros Natural Park reveal

Jurassic trails and caves carved out by the slow action of water.

THE INSPIRATION OF NATURE ANDNATURAL PARKS

27


028

WWW.viSitLiSboA.Com

TURISMO DE LISBOA

Rua do Arsenal, nº15

1100-038 Lisboa

T: 351 210 312 700

F: 351 210 312 899

E: [email protected]

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