A Fun Walk Through Lisbon’s History

You can expect a relaxed walk through Lisbon’s historic center, where every corner has a legend and the cobblestones carry traces of centuries of history. You’ll discover how Lisbon began, how the city survived the devastating earthquake of 1755, and why Lisbon became a capital of sailors, conquerors, and the great Age of Discoveries. We won’t just look at the city. We’ll try to understand its soul.

The Heart of Lisbon:

Praça do Comércio — once home to the royal palace and now the city’s main square. You’ll learn about its role during the Age of Discoveries, the devastating earthquake of 1755, and the rebuilding of Lisbon.

Church of Nossa Senhora da Conceição Velha — one of the few buildings to survive the earthquake. Its Manueline façade is a rare surviving example from the Age of Discoveries.

Casa dos Bicos — the famous “House of Spikes,” whose unusual façade resembles Venetian palazzos. We’ll explore its connection to Portugal’s Age of Discoveries.

Alfama — The Soul of the City

We’ll walk through Lisbon’s oldest neighborhood, discover how it survived the earthquake, and learn why this is where fado music was born.

We’ll also discover the history of a famous fado house once frequented by Madonna and talk about her role in bringing Portuguese music to a wider international audience.

We’ll explore Alfama’s medieval streets and wander through authentic little lanes that have preserved the atmosphere of the old city.

Lisbon’s Best Views!

Portas do Sol viewpoint — one of the best places to take in panoramic views of Alfama, the Tagus River and the domes of Lisbon’s historic churches.

Santa Luzia viewpoint — a romantic spot decorated with arches and azulejos, offering spectacular views over the city. Nearby, we’ll also discover a church associated with the Knights of Malta, one of Lisbon’s hidden gems.

Ancient and Moorish Heritage

We’ll see the old fortress walls that date back to the period of Moorish rule. We’ll talk about the Christian conquest of Lisbon and the influence of the Moors on the city’s architecture.

We’ll Discuss:

The origins of Lisbon — who settled here first and why the city became one of Europe’s strategic jewels.

The 1755 earthquake — what happened, how the tsunami swept through parts of the city, and why King José I chose not to live in a palace again.

Moors and Christians — what the Moors left behind, how they transformed Lisbon, and how the Christians eventually reconquered the city.

Lisbon’s Golden Age — how the Portuguese opened the sea route to India and why enormous wealth began flowing into the city.

Roman Lisbon — what remains of ancient Olisipo and how the Roman Empire shaped the city.

Saint Anthony — how a monk became one of Lisbon’s most beloved saints and why he is celebrated far beyond Portugal, especially in Italy.

Fado, the music of Lisbon — where it emerged, why it became so closely associated with the city, and what Madonna has to do with its international popularity.

The legacy of José Saramago — how his writing captivated readers around the world and why he was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature.