I was in Lisbon a few years ago on non-photography business, and while I only managed to squeeze in a bit over a day to explore, I loved what I saw of the city. I found the people to be very warm and welcoming, and the city to have a very friendly vibe. I’d love to go back sometime and venture north along the coast up to Dão.
Having grown up around the water and being fascinated with all things nautical, I loved Lisbon’s Maritime Museum. The Portuguese, after all, have and extraordinary maritime heritage.
I just wish I’d developed a better appreciation for port when I visited, something I plan to make up for next time I’m in that neck of the woods.
I didn’t have a lot of time to shoot while there, but did spend one beautifully clear day walking around the downtown area, including the Bairro Alto, Chiado, and Baixa. This particular shot was taken through the ramparts of Castelo São Jorge (or Saint George’s Castle), a Moorish castle. The site itself, on top of a hill with spectacular views, has long been a strategic military position, and evidence found so far of occupation of the site goes back to the 6th century BC. The white building in the distance is São Vicente de Fora, a 17th century monastery. Beyond that, the water is the mouth of the Tagus.
