Lisbon, also known as the city of the seven hills, is home to a various of historic monuments. Part of the main story of the city centers in the golden age of discoveries when Portuguese sailors decided to discover the new lands.
You will find below a list of our preferred 10 monuments in Lisbon and that we believe you shouldn’t miss out during your visit to the capital of Portugal.
Number 1: São Jorge Castle
The São Jorge Castle is one of the best and must see attractions in the city. The castle is linked to Lisbon’s early history and saw many historical moments between the fall of the Romans and Visigoths, to the battles of Arabs and Christians as well as witnessed the birth of Portugal. If you visit the castle, don’t miss out the shops and restaurants located in the same neighborhood.
Number 2: Lisbon Cathedral
The Lisbon Cathedral, also called the Sé, is the most important religious building in the city. Interesting fact that within the Lisbon’s cathedral is the font, used, to baptize Saint Anthony, the patron saint of Portugal, in 1195. If you decide for this attraction, note down that the cathedral is located on the main road from Baixa to Alfama and our recommendation is to arrive here using the famous yellow tram – the iconic route 28.
Number 3: Jerónimos Monastery
The Jerónimos Monatery is one of the most amazing landmarks of the country and its UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s a symbol of Portugal’s power and wealth during the golden age of Discoveries. The monastery was built in the 16th century by King Manuel I in honor to Vasco da Gama voyage to India and its located in Belem area. After your visit to the monastery, head to Pasteis de Belem to try out the famous Portuguese pastry.
Number 4: Monument to the Discoveries
This monument is the most recent one in the area of Belem. Its construction was ordered by the dictator António Oliveira Salazar for the Portuguese World Exhibition to honor the courage and bravery of the Portuguese sailors that crossed the world to discover new lands during the Discoveries. You will find interesting figures in this monument such as Luis Vaz de Camoes (famous Portuguese poet), Nuno Goncalves (Painter) and D. Henrique.
Number 5: Madre de Deus Convent
The Madre de Deus Convent located in Xabregas is unquestionably fabulous. It was founded in 1509 by the initiative of the queen D. Leonor and it is now home to the Tile Museum. This extravagant church is for sure something to remember from your trip to Lisbon.
Number 6: São Roque Church
The church as well as museum of São Roque is located in Bairro alto and has to offer a great cultural experience. It was founded by the Jesuit Order in the late 16th century and it has one of the richest interiors in Lisbon. Each chapel is indeed a masterpiece of Baroque art, but the fourth chapel is the most special one as they say it’s “world’s most expensive chapel.
Number 7: Triumphal Arc in Rua Augusta
Recently it is allowed to visit the top of this unique structure that has always intrigue who passes by. Located in Rua Augusta and overlooking the Praca do Comercio as well as the Tejo river, it symbolizes the rebirth of Lisbon after the earthquake in 1755. There is a message in Latin that says , “The Virtues of the Greatest”: the strength, resilience and achievements of the Portuguese people. You will also find figures of the Portuguese history in this arch such as Vasco da Gama, Viriato and Nuno Álvares Pereira. After your visit is complete, enjoy the riverfront square – Praça do Comércio and stroll around Ribeira das Naus for a coffee and some sunbathing.
Number 8: Tower of Belem
Tower of Belem is an iconic building of Portugalºs cultural heritage. Its is also on the list of UNESCO’s World Heritage. The tower is located on the waterfront at Belem and it was built in the early 1500s to honor the memory of Lisbon’s Patron Saint, St. Vincent. After your visit to the tower, we recommend a walk in the surroundings greens areas.
Number 9: Santa Junta Lift
Our next monument on the list is the Santa Just Lift. Yes, its is a lift with 45meters height! Santa Justa lift is considered the fastest way to get from Baixa area to Bairro Alto.
It was open to the public in 1902 and its initial name was Carmo Lift – Elevador do Carmo. Although nowadays it is famous within the city visitors, in the past it was used by the inhabitants as a mean of transportation.
We suggest you to enjoy the spectacular view from the top of the lift where you will have an overview of the Baixa neighborhood.
Number 10: Carmo Convent
Carmo convent was built between 1389 and 1423 for the Carmelite order but after the city’s earthquake in 1755, lost its functionality. Its construction was ordered by Nuno Alvares Pereira, an influential knight, head of the Portuguese army. Nowadays, the convent is home to the Carmo Archeological Museum. Its is definitely worth a visit!
We hope that you enjoyed our top 10 monuments in Lisbon. Of course, Lisbon has many others great monuments awaiting your visit.
If you would like to know more, our team is happy to support you with that. You only need to write us an email at geral@hotelluena.com.
