LUXURY GETAWAYS
Throw in a splash of Roman finesse with a sprinkle of German flair, topped with Moorish castles and Gothic monasteries—that’s what Portugal’s delightful architectural legacy offers to feast your eyes on. Let’s give you a glimpse of the awe-inspiring architectural wonders in Portugal, that you need to check out ASAP!
One of the oldest cities in the world – Lisbon has a rich history spanning millennia and is home to the Castle of São Jorge which commands scenic vistas of the capital from atop a hill. Spend an illuminating morning at this popular ruin and the adjacent museum.
Take a short walk from the Castle hill and head to the Lisbon Cathedral, in existence since 1147 A.D. It is a vision to behold, embodying the architectural styles of different eras since. Notice the main facade styled after a fortress with crenellations to serve the twin purpose of converting the prayer room to a stronghold during sieges. Do hop over to the nearby estuary of the Tagus River to soak in the legend of Ulysses, deemed as the founder of the settlement.
The evenings are best spent at the popular Praça do Comércio to relish the scenic sunset vistas at the plaza. Make sure to switch our cameras to the panorama mode for some frame-worthy pictures of the iconic buildings in the square! Minutes away from this popular tourist spot in Lisbon lies Sao Roque Church, with subtly crafted interiors imploring your keen sense of observation.
Reflecting contrasting architectural auras and signifying the power of past and present Portugal – the Belem Tower and the Vasco da Gama Tower invite you to soak in picture-perfect sights.
Who’d have thought train stations could be so beautiful? Sip on a cuppa from Starbucks at Estação do Rossio while admiring the grace of erstwhile Portuguese framework. You can also schedule a trip from Oriente Station to enjoy the sharp yet subtle modern architecture.
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Home to well-preserved megaliths and Celtic ruins – Evora is a flourishing tourist hotspot with striking Roman relics and hint of Moorish influences. About an hour and a half from the capital, kick-start your trip with a visit to the Temple of Diana, one of the ancient and best preserved monuments today.
Brimming with history and few minutes afar from there lies the Praca do Giraldo. Raise a toast to its exquisite Gothic architecture while re-fueling at the pubs and eateries of the square.
Don’t miss out on a tour of Cromlech Almendres, housing 95 stones in a ceremonial pattern. The best part is that there’s no entrance fee, no fencing and it’s open for a visit anytime!
#HorrorFansAlert: When in Evora, make it a point to visit The Bone Chapel, lined with skulls and bones, exhumed from the city’s belly to make way for burials.
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Opulent palaces, sprawling mansions and overwhelming ruins of the Castelo dos Mouros cast a hypnotic charm on visitors at Sintra, a mere day trip away from the capital.
Check in at the fairytale castle of Palácio Nacional da Pena, one of the dreamiest architectures in Portugal and relive your Cinderella fan moments.
#SintraHighlight: Hike to the Cruz Alta viewpoint for a picture-perfect view of the palace, replete with the surrounding pine forests and distant cityscape.
Stroke your inner Robert Langdon with a visit to The Quinta da Regaleira famous for hidden walkways and curious religious symbolism.
From Renaissance masterpieces to sleek modern architecture, ready to explore Portugal’s architectural gems?
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