FURTHER EXPLORATION IN LISBON
The next day we continued our adventure in Lisbon, this time by foot, water, and double-decker bus. First thing in the morning we boarded a boat for a shoreline cruise of the Tagus estuary.
Along the way, we were offered a recorded commentary in both Portuguese and English. One of the interesting things about this tour is that our boat docked at several locations to allow passengers to get on and off and thereby explore many of the waterfront sights on foot.
Lisbon is situated on the estuary at the mouth of the Tagus River. On the banks of the estuary, and visible from the water are many monuments and interesting historical sites.
The statue of Christ the King in Almada is located on the southern shore of the estuary and is easily visible from the water.
(Image courtesy of Wikipedia)
Belém Tower is a fortified tower and it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of the significant role it played in the Portuguese maritime discoveries. The tower was commissioned by King John II to be part of a defense system at the mouth of the Tagus river and a ceremonial gateway to Lisbon.
Padrão dos Descobrimentos (Monument of the Discoveries) is located along the estuary where ships departed to explore and trade with India and the Orient. A 52-meter-high slab, the design takes the form of the prow of a carvel ship used in early Portuguese exploration. On either side of the slab are ramps that join at the river’s edge, with the figure of Henry the Navigator on its edge. On either side are 16 figures representing significant individuals from Portuguese naval history. [Commentary in part courtesy of Wikipedia.]
(Image courtesy of Wikipedia.)
(Image courtesy of Wikipedia.)
This bridge is named after the revolution that took place April 25, 1975, when the Carnation Revolution took place that ended the dictatorial regime and returned democracy to Portugal. 25 April is a national holiday, known as Liberation Day to celebrate the event.
Up next… we leave Lisbon and travel by car north to the university city of Coimbra.
