During my stay in Portugal I saw so many photogenic doors. As a lover of doors Lisbon was a stand out city for this.
My featured photograph certainly caught my eye. I was tempted to go in but was slightly worried they would ask if I needed any help. I wouldn’t have a clue!
In a small lane near Sao Jorge Castle.
Washing already in!
From the R. da Barroca – possibly one of the steepest streets I ever climbed
This is a challenge hosted by Dan from No Facilities.
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I woke up to a bleak and wet dreary day. Nevertheless, I set out with my trusty pink mac and waterproof shoes. After breakfast I stood pondering on the pavement looking at the slick and shiny cobblestones, realising the only way was up.
I was told yesterday that Tram 28 would take me as close to the castle as possible. Jumping on the tram I asked the young female driver if this was correct, nodding affirmatively she drove off. Heavy on the horn and hard on the breaks she made her way slowly up towards the castle.
Through the windows of the tram
Enjoying the ride and lost in thought I was more than surprised when she announced “everybody off”. I had missed the castle stop completely as places were not announced. I was told I had to make my way over to the other side of the square and start again. I waited in line for 15 minutes with the rain pouring down. With irony, I jumped back on the same tram and with the same driver! I pointedly asked her to tell me this time what stop to alight at.
Finally arriving, I walked up to the castle and started exploring. The rain was getting heavier so I did my best to take quick shots while trying to keep my phone dry.
Rainbow of raincoats
So many peacocks of various colours
Slightly on edge with beady eyes staring at me
There has been a structure on the top of the hill since the 1st Century. Sao Jorge Castle was captured in the 11th Century by King Alfonso. It was converted to a Royal palace and lived in until the 16th century.
Arches and Gateways
The walk around the castle was taking me quite some time. With so many stairs to climb on uneven slippery stones, I was being extra careful!
Windows, doors and other structures
Me and the views!
The views were stunning made more magical with the rooftop tiles glistening from the rain.
Feeling wet and cold it was time for lunch. It’s not hard to find a cozy cafe (“tasca”) in Lisbon and I walked into one just outside the castle. Of course I chose another fish dish.
Watching the world go by
The trip back to town did not go as planned, which seems to be the theme so far for this trip. Hopped on the wrong bus, just hoping for the best not really planning for the worst. I had a long walk back to the apartment, arriving completely soaking wet.
However, The Brother had planned a great evening which made up for it. He took me to a secret bar around 15 minutes walk away. Here we enjoyed a cocktail in the most quirkiest of places.
The place was amazing, with World War I and II toys on showcased in cabinets and on the ceiling.
Who doesn’t like a man in uniform!
The Pink Mac in all it’s glory. Here I am looking like a Tele Tubby, according to The Brother.
As my brother is working in Portugal I thought I would take the opportunity to visit him. He booked us into a two bed apartment just down the hill from the infamous funicular. During the day I was left to my own devices, meeting up for dinner at night. I’m quite happy to take tours on my own or follow google maps to explore this beautiful city.
I found a cute little cafe just a minute from the apartment to start the day with coffee and breakfast.
I worked out a walking plan and started down the hill. At the bottom I spied a hop on bus which I jumped on right away. Looking at the map I intended to alight at the Jeronimos Monastery. When I looked at the queue, I realised there was no way I was going to line up for an hour in the sun. I decided a different plan was called for.
I carried on walking towards the water front and through a beautiful park. The song Perfect was being played by a girl with a flute which could be heard all through the park.
The amazing Monument to the Discoveries came into view, looking dramatic against the blue sky. I took a few photos of the figures on the side and it was only when I looked up I saw people at the top. I decided to join them and bought a ticket, no queues this time. An elevator takes you up six floors and then there are stairs to the top. Well worth the price of the €10 ticket.
This monument is located on the banks of the Tagus River. It is shaped like the bow of a caravel, standing at 184 ft tall. The leading figure is Prince Henry the Navigator and followed by 32 other significant figures from that era. (The Age of Discovery during the 15th and 16th Centuries).
Ajuda National Palace and Jeronimos Monastery.
In the basement of this monument is a cultural centre which showcases various exhibits over the centuries. I enjoyed all the murals on display here.
Feeling peckish by now I headed back into the Old Town and looked for a traditional Portuguese cafe for lunch. I found the perfect place.
I didn’t think I could go wrong with a traditional dish of grilled sardines and a glass of Vino Verde.
With still time to go, I caught another bus up to the castle. It was too late to go in. I’ll try again tomorrow.
View from the top of Sao Jorge Castle
Out for dinner
A fabulous first day exploring the sights and streets of Lisbon. With so much to do it’s impossible to see everything in a few days. I am going to do my best.
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