LISBON PORTUGAL Explore marvelous Lisbon, one of the oldest cities in the world. Discover the earthy waterfront appeal of Lisbon. Situated along the River Tagus as it flows into the Atlantic, the capital of Portugal is built upon seven hills and has a magnificent harbor. Rich in architecture ranging from Romanesque to Post-Modern, Lisbon is home to its own style, called Manueline. The school is characterized by sumptuous ornamentation, maritime elements and traditional Flemish, Gothic and Mudéjar styles. The buildings, monuments and fortifications of Lisbon reveal a lush history of European and North African influence that still shimmers throughout the city today. LOCAL CUISINE SHOPPING Portuguese food is a hearty mix of land and sea. Meals almost always start with soup. Try caldo verde, a kale and sausage recipe. The staple here is bacalhau. The local joke is that every day of the year deserves a different preparation of this salted cod. Grills are just as popular. Order grilled chicken or pork in chili, garlic and olive oil. The locals can’t live without bica, a thick espresso. Try some early in the day or pair meals with highdemand Colares vinho, grown in sandy vineyards just outside Lisbon. CURRENCY Portugal uses the euro. Lisbon has a strong independent fashion scene. Ask locals where to buy the best names in ultra-feminine dresses and structured separates. Look for cork souvenirs, too. Shops carry jewelry, home goods, upmarket handbags and even soft accessories, like scarves or beach cover-ups. In the markets and shops, local artisans offer regionally attired dolls. Some say the dolls have mystical healing properties. Exchange money at ATMs or conversion booths. Tip for excellent service only. LISBON PORTUGAL PLACES OF INTEREST TOP 3 LAND DISCOVERIES ROYAL LISBON 1. EDWARD VII PARK Relax in this large green park just north of Lisbon’s main shopping avenue. Discover this beautiful capital city, rebuilt after a 1755 earthquake. Visit Edward VII Park with views of the Tagus River before touring the Carriages Museum, the 16th century Jerónimos Church and Vasco da Gama’s tomb. Enjoy a centuries-old custard recipe to sweeten the day’s end. 2. JERÓNIMOS MONASTERY Witness this beautiful monastery, the first named example of Manueline architecture. 3. VASCO DA GAMA’S TOMB Visit the explorer’s ornate sarcophagus in the lower choir of the Jerónimos Monastery. MEDIEVAL ÓBIDOS Step back in time in Óbidos. Settled in the 3rd century B.C., the town later was a gift from King Dinis to his wife in the late 1200s. Stroll its picturesque lanes to see the 17th century Parish Church of Santa Maria and shops and boutiques of Pillory Square or hike a hill to the local castle. 4. TORRE DE BELÉM See this 16th century tower, commissioned by King John II, on the River Tagus. 5. CASTLE OF SÃO JORGE View this Moorish citadel and castle, built upon fortifications from the 2nd century B.C.. beyond city center MIRACULOUS FATIMA Pilgrimage to Fátima, a sacred spot to Catholics. In 1917, three shepherds in Cova da Iria saw the sky light up and reported the Virgin Mary appeared to them with a message of peace. Visit the Chapel of The Apparitions and Basilica at the Sanctuary of Fátima for independent contemplation. ÓBIDOS Journey to this village, full of well-preserved medieval streets, squares and walls. FÁTIMA Make the pilgrimage to this holy city where Catholics believe the Virgin Mary appeared. Visit the Land Discoveries Desk on Deck 4 to reserve these and other exciting experiences. 1 5 2 3 4 This information has been compiled for the convenience of our guests and is intended solely for that purpose. While we work to ensure that the information contained herein is correct, we cannot accept responsibility for any changes that may have taken place since printing. ©2014 Azamara Club Cruises. Ships’ Registry: Malta.