TRICIA STEVENS
PERSPECTIVES
PORTUGAL
Located on the Atlantic Ocean, this country is the oldest nation in Europe. Lisbon is older than Rome, making it the 2nd oldest capital in Europe, after Athens. Portugal is known for its Fado music, port wine, codfish (and affordable seafood options!), stunning tile work, and plenty of sunshine.
ABSOLUTE MUSTS
Livraria Lello Bookshop
Known for being the most beautiful bookstore in the world, Livraria Lello has been around since 1906. The interior is two-stories of beautiful wood carvings, stain-glass windows, and the most magnificent centrally located circular red staircase. It is said that the staircase inspired J.K. Rowling in her book Harry Potter. It was inspiration for the Grand Staircase that changes configurations at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.
Coimbra University
Overlooking the city of Coimbra, perched on top of the highest point overlooking the River Mondego, is the University of Coimbra. It is one of the oldest universities in Europe dating back to the late 13th century and it is popular with technology and science students. It is said that this University inspired author J.K. Rowling in creating her first Harry Potter book. The most stunning part of the University however is the Bibliotheca Joanna (the university library). It is considered to be one of the most beautiful libraries in the world and I would have to agree! Photos are not allowed inside. It’s an 18th century library covered in gold and intricate wood carvings. Fun fact – About 20 bats live behind the bookshelves and come out at night to control the insect population so the books don’t get ruined. The furniture is also protected with a leather cloth after the library closes.
Ribeira District
If your journey takes you to the incredible city of Porto, wander along the Douro River and admire the colourful Portuguese architecture found in the Ribeira neighborhood. It’s many bars, cafes, and restaurants will leave no shortage of places to sit and people watch. Be sure to explore the back alleyways behind these colourful buildings which is filled with winding medieval streets and cobblestone alleyways. You can easily get lost, but you’re never too far from the river!
Jeronimos Monastery
The Monastery was built in 1502 and is a symbol of Portugal’s power and wealth during the Age of Discovery. It was one of the first monuments in Europe to be listed as a World Heritage Site. The monastery was home to the monks of the Order of Saint Jerome and they were supposed to pray for the king’s soul. They also created the recipe for the famous custard tarts (Pasteis de Belem) which are sold at the pastry shop down the street to this day!
Devour a Pastéis de Nata
Created by monks in Jeronimos Monastery, this Portuguese delicacy is made of custard served in a puff pastry, sprinkled with cinnamon. Some of the best Pastel de Nata’s can be found in Belem at a bakery called Pasteis de Belem. This bakery has been around since 1837! The recipe created by the monks has remained unchanged to this day. Enjoy it warm, fresh out of the oven, to experience this mouth-watering treat!
Azulejo's
Portugal is home to MANY azulejos (meaning polished stone in Arabic). These glazed ceramic tiles are found covering the exteriors of walls, fountains, murals, and churches. These ceramic tiles started being used in Portugal and Spain in the 13th century. Of all the cities in the world, Lisbon is perhaps the city that uses them the most on the exteriors of buildings. Most tilework on the murals in Portugal reflect scenes, that tie into that location.
Belem Tower
Belem Tower is located on the Tagus River and was used to defend and protect the city from enemy ships. It was constructed between 1515-1521. Inside the tower there are 16 windows with cannons. Visitors are also able to view the pits and holes where the prisoners were thrown into.
Pena Palace
Situated on top of a hill, high above the town of Sintra, the construction of Pena Palace was completed in 1854. The castle was built to serve as a summer residence for the King. The history of the castle started with a chapel dedicated to Our Lady of Pena. The castle is surrounded by a 200 hectare forest known as Pena Park. If time allows, take one of the hiking trails up to the top, passing ponds, exotic trees, and pavilions. Some of the exotic trees along the route include Gingkos from China, Sequoias from America, and Ferns from Australia.
Quinta de Regaleira
While in Sintra, don’t forget to swing by another spectacular site known as Quinta de Regaleira. This palace is a mix of Egyptian, Gothic, Islamic, Manueline, and Renaissance architectural styles. Roam the large garden surrounding the palace and stop by the two incredible wells that wind down deep into the ground.The largest well is nearly 30 meters deep and consists of 9 flights of spiral stairs representing the eight knights and the first Grand Master, Hugues de Payens, who founded the Templars back in 1118.
Sao Bento Station
It’s very likely that you might be arriving to Porto by train, but if you’re not, you MUST visit the train station. Porto’s São Bento Railway Station is covered with murals using over 20,000 azulejo tiles. These murals reflect stories of Portuguese history, including images of popular explorers. It’s the most beautiful train station!
