Experience ECCMID

Declared in 2011 a part of the UNESCO intangible Cultural Heritage, the famous Portuguese music style Fado originated in the Alfama district and is a must to experience. With more than 40 Fado houses throughout the city, as well as the Museum of Fado, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the musical tradition. – Fado is usually performed by a solo singer, male or female, accompanied by an acoustic guitar and the twelve-stringed, pear-shaped cittern.

Lisbon is a dream destination for foodies, wine lovers, critics and the curious. From modern restaurants to century-old tascas, there is always a table set and waiting for you. The famous salted cod, bacalhau, in its various forms, is not to be missed. The seafood and fresh fish bring the Atlantic onto your plate, either in a sophisticated way or simply straight from the grill. The cafés, where so many Portuguese writers gathered together, have outdoor seating with stunning views, endless hours of enchanting sun and interesting wine lists to get to know Portugal’s greatest riches.

Lisbon is the perfect city break, not just because it combines a European capital, the beach and nature all into one, but because it also offers a set of characteristics you won’t find anywhere else. You won’t find so much art below your feet in any other city, let alone in the impressive shape of calçada portuguesa, the art of stone paving which visitors find so impressive. If you can manage to raise your eyes from ground level to the walls around you, you will also see that the amazing art of tile making (azulejaria) has plenty to be proud of. In almost every building and street you can find worthy representatives of the geometric art style that reached its zenith in Portugal.

At the end of the 15th century, during the transition from the Gothic era to the Renaissance, an architectural style influenced by Moorish elements emerged in palaces in Lisbon and Sintra, as well as in the construction of the monastery of Jerónimos and Torre de Belém. During the reign of King Manuel I, countless monuments, windows and doorways were built that were influenced by a Naturalist style responsible for more architectural structures than decorative motifs. The size and depth of the arches and ornate framing cornices, facades and vaults distinguish the Manueline style, which began to wane with the Renaissance from 1517 onwards. The style is part of the history, richness and glory of this unique period in Portuguese history.