lisboa, a city of contrasts
Photo: José Manuel
lisboa, a city of contrasts
lisboa, a city of contrasts
lisboa, a city of contrasts
lisboa, a city of contrasts
lisboa, a city of contrasts
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Lisboa, a city of contrasts
Lisboa, a city of contrasts
Place: Lisboa
Photo: José Manuel Filmed, sung and described by artists and visitors from all over the world, the famous light of Lisbon is the best guide to understanding this city of contrasts.

It is impossible to discuss Lisbon for any length of time without someone making the comment - "ahhh, the Lisbon light..." And hardly surprisingly.

Lisbon was founded over 20 centuries ago, built on hills along the banks of the river Tagus, as it approaches the Atlantic ocean. Beyond the brightness characteristic of these latitudes, Lisbon has long benefits from plays on light and shadow.

Encouraged throughout centuries of architecture, this is reflected in the often extremely narrow streets winding their way up and down the riverfront hills, establishing the borders of historical neighbourhoods each with their respective traditions and styles.

This game has been visually opened up by more modern architectural styles, lighter and designed for the broad sweep of the avenues, even while always remaining interlinked with the river.

Culturally, Lisbon has managed to maintain its character through this play on light and shadow. The recognition of a past replete with maritime history, opened to the World by the Voyages of Discovery, born witness to in its museums, monuments and traditions. And the present is marked by an equal openness to the 21st century world with contemporary museums, prominent cultural events and all the styles of a cosmopolitan city.

Lisboa of the Discoveries
Lisbon is a city open to the sea that has always defined its destiny. Visit the beauty and history of its riverside neighbourhoods.
Azulejos in the Metro
Wander around and get out at all the stations. Look at the walls and discover art works in the Lisbon Metro.
Lisboa of the oceans
Lisbon has always been open to the sea that defined its destiny. By the riverside, take a walk packed with beauty and history.
Lisbon's azulejos
Tiles are a defining feature of Lisbon’s architectural heritage. Come and discover the art of tiling!
Parque das Nações, Lisboa
Parque das Nações, site of the World Expo ’98, is a great space dedicated to the public’s enjoyment that has provided a link between the city and ...
Cruises on the Tagus
Lisbon seen from the Tagus, with its old neighbourhoods laid out above, is a great means of appreciating this city strung out along its estuary shore.
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