Alfama and Mouraria, the old quarters from the time of the Arabs were not destroyed by the great earthquake (1755). Alfama and Mouraria with alleys, small squares with cobblestones, lots of steps, and dead ends remind us of what Lisbon looked like in middle age.
At your hotel or in the Rossio square
After leaving the downtown we head to Mouraria, an old ghetto from the Moorish when the city was reconquered in 1147.
In a hidden alley, we reach the Beco da Achada (dead end), with a Gothic house from the 15th century. From 3 different terraces of Chão do Loureiro (an old market hall), Portas do Sol and Sta Luzia, there is a superb view over Bairro Alto, Alfama, Baixa and the south bank of the river Tagus.
Then we take a walk through Alfama, the oldest quarter of Lisbon, with its Moorish roots, a real labyrinth of picturesque alleys, hidden corners, and narrow staircases.
One of the highlights of the old town is the Cathedral, a fortified church that replaced a mosque after the reconquest.
Continuing downhill, we arrive at the harbor, up to the House of the Pointed Stones with a unique facade since the pointed stones look like diamonds. The son of the Viceroy of India, Albuquerque, had this Italian-style city palace built in 1522.
After learning about the history of the old town and understanding its development nothing better than a fresh drink in one of the several bars at the visit card of Lisbon, the beautiful Commerce Square.
Commerce square
Guide fee
Entrance fee in the cathedral
Comfortable shoes are recommended
This tour has hills and steps
I don´t guide during the night
I can guide you in Coimbra, Fatima, Evora, Obidos, Alcobaça, and Batalha if you pay my transportation fee
On Monday the Monastery, Belem Tower, and S. Roque church are closed