THE TRAVELLERS JOURNALS

 

  

Day 7 –St George Castle and the narrow streets of Alfama

We’ll start the day with a stroll to the nearby Eduardo VII Park located on the extreme north side of the Liberty Avenue, right behind the Marques de Pombal Square, this park provides excellent views over the city and is frequently used to hold exhibitions, concerts and the annual booksellers fair.


After a breath of fresh air we’ll take the metro to the baixa once more.

 

Once there it’s time for the big decision: If you've got strong legs and a good back, there's no excuse to take the tram to the top of the castle hill - on foot is the only way to explore here.

 

 

Edward VII park

 

 

alfama

    
alfama Visiting Alfama is to visit the architecture, the sounds and the smells of old Lisbon, a myriad of cobbled streets, quaint houses, unassuming shops and crumbling buildings. This is one of the most typical quarters of Lisbon. On its narrow and winding streets you'll find the hidden treasure of Alfama and on its steep stairs you will be able to breathe the soul of Lisbon and feel its heart.

alfama
 

 

There is no better way to express the heart and soul of Lisbon than in the way of the Fado - the traditional Portuguese music. Sad, touching, meaningful. With artists like Amalia Rodrigues, Carlos do Carmo, Mariza...

And if the Fado had a home, that home had to be Alfama!

   

 

alfama

Life for the locals seems to meander on as if the tourists weren't there - washing hangs from windows, old men chat in the street and women cook on griddles outside their homes wile they trade the latest gossip.


Alfama was once home to the unlucky, delinquents or non-grateful and due to its proximity with the river it was also the home of many sailors. Rebuilt by the local population after the 1755 earthquake, Alfama was to be demolished but the decision didn't go through as this region of Lisbon was thankfully considered to be a living history book where the past blends with the present.

  
 

 

Saint George Castle is a magical place, a charming hilltop citadel with geese and ducks roaming around the castle gardens. Climb the towers and walk along the reconstructed ramparts of the castle walls and wonder at the spectacular views over Lisbon and the Tagus river, while local men play backgammon and cards under the trees.
The symbiosis between the castle and the landscape couldn't be better. Due to its historical background and the dazzling views it offers, this is the perfect place for a well-spent afternoon!

 st george castle
 

 

Unfortunatly all good things have an end... And now it's time for the final goodbyes.

Goodbye charming and lovely Lisbon and I hope I'll see you again.

 

The Traveller

 

 

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