October 8th
As part of our exploratory walks, we visited the Bairro Alto area which is a nighttime entertainment area although it is still interesting during the day but without major sites…
The two funicular routes of Gloria and Bica transport passengers (mainly tourists!) up the steep hills into Chiado and Bairro Alto…
Next up was Chiada a popular shopping and theatre district of Lisbon, which has a selection of historic monuments, traditional shops and interesting cafes and restaurants……
…some of the tile work on the buildings makes you stop and take a second look…
…and
……then there are the non assuming churches until you enter them and are stunned by the opulence and workmanship >>> the Church of São Roque (St. Roch) built in 1553 is considered as one of Lisbon’s most magnificent monuments. The Chapel of St. John the Baptist (2nd pic) is considered to be “the world’s most expensive chapel.” Built in Rome between 1742 and 1747, using the most precious materials, it was transported to Lisbon on three ships and reconstructed…
The ruins of the Carmo Church are a permanent reminder to the residents of Lisbon of the devastating earthquake that struck the city in 1755. Contained within the skeleton remains of the vaults and arches is a small archaeological museum.
The Carmo Largo “Square” is a nice shaded spot just outside of the ruins of the Carmo Church ….
…..the square is surrounded by several nice restaurants but as Steve & Steph ate at the Carmo Restaurante we decided to follow suit and have lunch there:
……good choice, enjoyed a window seat and a fixed price lunch consisting of a starter, main, dessert, coffee (espresso) and a large glass of wine to wash it down for 24 Euros > nice place, nice food, nice service and a fun meal…
……after a rather leisurely lunch, strolled around the area just checking out the sights….The “Cafe a Brasileira” is one of Lisbon’s most iconic cafes, it was here during the 19th century Portugal’s academics and intellectuals could discuss the pressing issues of the day, while struggling artists would sell their paintings.
….as well as some interesting and not so interesting sights…
……interesting food mix …..
…..lots of different contraptions are rented here …
….and then there is this approach to meeting a potential partner …not sure this a winner ????
…then slowly made our way back to Alfama via Metro > you need to descend 6 levels of escalators to get to the trains…
….a bit too stuffed to have dinner so settled for wine and cheese listening to the fellow next door playing Sinatra era tunes….very mellow !! I think we are now in the Lisbon rhythm…