Famous for being an old fishermen neighborhood, Alfama is one of the most visited places in Lisbon for its particular streets, viewpoints and corners ideal for walking all day. Discover its history, places worth seeing and activities to do in Alfama.
At the time of Muslim rule, Alfama was divided into two parts. The first was the upper class residential area and the other a popular neighborhood, where the majority of the population was located. Over the years, the neighborhood developed with great help from the fishermen.
At the end of the 12th century, the first churches were built, and then fish markets, hospitals, and schools with residential areas began to emerge. During medieval times, Christians, Muslims and Jews coexisted in Alfama, the latter establishing a Jewish quarter that prevails to this day.
But in 1755 the neighborhood was destroyed by an earthquake. However, they managed to preserve its small streets and alleys that characterize this traditional area of Lisbon.
Alfama is known for its numerous viewpoints located along the hills, allowing to contemplate both the roofs of the houses of the neighborhood and the fishing area.
One of the most visited is the Mirador de las Puertas del Sol, as well as the Mirador de Santa Lucia. This romantic space surrounded by nature is decorated with tiles with images of the city and has panoramic views of Alfama and the Tagus.
After visiting some of the most interesting viewpoints in the neighborhood, you can’t miss a stroll through St. George’s Castle. Considered a National Monument, its origin dates back to the 5th century and it is one of the most visited monuments in the city.
Due to the passage of time and the disaster caused by the earthquake, the building had to be restored several times. However, it preserves ideal corners from where the area of the Tagus River can be contemplated.
The tour continues to the Sé Cathedral of Lisbon, built in 1147 after the Moors conquered the city. The architecture of the building combines the romantic style on the exterior, with a two-tower structure.
While the interior is darker and reflects the gothic style that was chosen to decorate.It is one of the oldest medieval monuments in Lisbon. There are the remains of the patron saint of the city, and there is a cloister with a Roman and Arab past.
On the other hand, in the heart of the city is the Santa Clara Market. It is inside a building that dates back to the 19th century and has handicraft stores, clothing stores, and numerous restaurants.
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