Portugal Forum

April 8, 2009

Lisbon Coast

Filed under: Cities & Towns — Tags: , — admin @ 1:25 pm

Finding the perfect spot where each member of the family can expect a breathtaking holiday is not hard in Portugal’s lovely capital. This is because Lisbon provides its visitors a limitless option of things to see and do. Whether you want daytime outings or some fun, from sunset ‘til dawn, Lisbon will spoil you with enticing sights and worthwhile activities. It just feels good to try its many culinary delights and visit all the attractions that make the city and the entire Costa de Lisbon region so special.Geographically the Lisbon Coast is the smallest of the mainland regions in the country. But within its small territory, a wealth of entertainment is packed, and a rich and impressively integrated diversity is offered. With much pride with its cool summers and springtime temperatures during winter months, the city and the Lisbon Coast are perhaps the most densely populated and almost certainly the most contemporary part of the country. There are few world capitals that are as romantic and as easy to leisurely walk as the lovely city of Lisbon.

History

According to the legend, the city was founded by Ulysses. Lisbon comes from the word “Olissipo” which originally meant “enchanting port”. Lisbon is a famous city with 20 centuries of history. For 450 years, it was occupied by the Moors, which explains the strong Arabic influence in its architecture. The Christians recaptured and took control of the city in the 12th century. In the next century, the city became the capital of Portugal.

The 15th century marked the commencement of the Age of Discoveries. This began when Vasco da Gama discovered the sea route to India in 1498. Historians call this period the golden age of the country. It was also during this era when the Lisbon Coast became a trade centre for spice and jewelry.

Even at the dawn of the 21st century, the city has still retained much of its original character. Monuments, museums, and a lot more architectural masterpieces still stand proud in the city streets. Every June, the streets of Lisbon display its vibrant and hospitable nature with the feasts in honor of their patron saints. Famous churches are within the walking distance of this area. Radiant skies still cheer up the monumental city, with its narrow medieval streets and facades covered with tiles.

Where to go and what to do in Lisbon

It doesn’t carry some weight if your idea of fun and retreat is savoring the city lights and dancing all night or if you rather go exploring castles, museums, malls, and restaurants, you can come upon things that you want here on the Lisbon Coast. There is nearly nothing that you desire for wish that Lisbon Coast doesn’t offer.

Lisbon’s nightlife is by and large deemed to be among the best in Europe. The theaters, cabarets, bars, and discos add spice to life in the city once sunset has taken over. The Fado houses, where visitors can relish the superb local delicacies and where they can listen to the romantic music of the city, are strongly recommended for a visit. The selections differ according to the individual’s preference, but fun and quality are always guaranteed. Undoubtedly, this is a side of the city you should not miss.

If you are interested in history, you can visit Alfama, the oldest surviving area in the entire country. Since it was constructed about five centuries back, the quarter has retained much of its original appearance and charm. One of the best sites where you can take the best photos is the Castle of Saint George. This castle, sitting on a hill that has a view over the whole Lisbon, looks something like that described in fairytales. Another place you should visit is the Jeronimos Monastery known for its sheer size and beauty. A guided tour in the monastery would let you feel that you are existing 300 years ago.

Another home for many ancient prehistoric archeological remains is the incredibly beautiful Borough of Sintra. This region has scenic undulating verdant hills which overlook the Atlantic. Because of its nearly perfect climate all throughout the year, incredibly beautiful palaces and ancient castles were built by the wealthy and the noble of the ancient and still stand proud in this area. These palaces are museums filled with overwhelming masterpieces and ancient artifacts. In this area, you can also find an amazing toy museum which houses more than 20, 000 toys that are approximately 400 years old.

The fascinating town of Setubal, found just south of the city, is well-known for its stunning 20-mile white-sand beaches. The city is the only European capital blessed with close proximity to beaches.

The Lisbon Coast is truly a romantically diverse region. These and a plethora of other attractions make the city and the region such a pleasant and hospitable place to visit.

Investing in Properties

The notion that Lisbon and the Lisbon Coast are undiscovered by investors is fast changing. A rapid increase in the number of tourists and the growing reputation of property in the region implies that the soonest is the right time for people to invest in the region. With its stunning attractions and worthwhile offerings, you may be tempted to buy a property in this part of the country. In the city, you ma want to buy properties in Sta. Catarina, Alfama, Castelo, and Chiado districts.

The city’s districts and the Lisbon Coast offers so much for the investors as these areas are few of the spots in the country opening up to those who desire or something different to the Algarve. These areas are fast gaining fame among foreign investors, fast to see the potential of the areas for their portfolio. The charm of Lisbon Coast is simple to understand as it is looked upon by the nation as their ‘Riviera.’ This is partly due to its combination with the country’s elegant capital in adding sophistication and displaying an array of fantastic scenery, impressive cultural heritage, and an abundance of fascinating places to visit.

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