Amazing architecture in Lisbon
5th December 2006
The capital of Portugal, Lisbon offers a huge variety of attractions ranging from sandy beaches to historic architecture.
The city stands on a series of hills, making some of the streets too steep for cars to travel on. This unusual fact means that Lisbon contains some of the most impressive transport networks in Europe. The historic tram system, introduced in the 19th century, still carries citizens around the region, while funiculars provide visitors with stunning views of the area.
This is also the best way of accessing the Castle of Sao Jorge, an enormous castle that has stood since the 2nd century BC on the biggest hill in the city. Lisbon also hosts the Mosteiro dos Jeronimos, a huge monastery built in the 16th century that is now a UNESCO world heritage site and found in the city's Belem district.
The Orient Station, a transport hub for the whole of the city, is a more modern architectural attraction. Designed by famous architect Santiago Calatrava, the station is made of glass and steel columns that reflect light in the day and are illuminated at night.
Lisbon is home to a number of museums, including the National Museum of Ancient Art, which houses famous Portuguese work such as the Nuno Goncalves' Saint Vincent Panels as well as art from the likes of Surer and Velasquez.
The National Theatre Museum, meanwhile, provides a fascinating insight into Lisbon's cultural heritage, displaying over 260,000 pieces of theatrical history – ranging from costumes to manuscripts.
The city's beaches are well known for their high quality and variety, ranging from surfers' paradises in the west to Adraga beach, a more secluded area just south of the city that was recently voted one of the best in Europe.
The Monsanto Forest Park, one of the largest urban parks in Europe, is found in the west of the city, close to the attractive coastline, and helps make Lisbon the ideal location for a relaxing break.
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