Capital of Portugal: Lisbon – The Gem of the Mediterranean

Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, is one of Europe’s oldest and most charming cities, where thousands of years of history blend seamlessly with modern life. Situated on the banks of the Tagus River, Lisbon serves as Portugal’s cultural and economic hub. Let’s explore the beauty, history, and potential of Lisbon – the city famously known as the 'Gem of the Mediterranean'.

History of Lisbon: From antiquity to the age of exploration

Lisbon’s history spans over 2,700 years, dating back to the Phoenician period (8th century BC). The city has gone through numerous stages of development:

Lisbon has a history spanning over 2,700 years

• Roman Period: Known then as Olisipo, Lisbon was an important port in the province of Lusitania. Remnants such as the Roman Theatre (now beneath Augusta Street) are still preserved.

• Moorish Period: From the 8th to the 12th century, Lisbon was occupied by the Moors, leaving a lasting imprint on its architecture and culture, particularly in the Alfama district.

• Age of Exploration: In the 15th–16th centuries, Lisbon became the center of the Portuguese Empire, where explorers like Vasco da Gama set out to conquer the world. The Belém district, with the Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery – both UNESCO World Heritage Sites – exemplifies this golden era.

• Disaster and Rebirth: The 1755 earthquake devastated Lisbon, but the city was rebuilt under the leadership of the Marquis of Pombal, creating the Baixa Pombalina district with its modern grid layout.

According to the Portugal National Archives (2024), Lisbon is one of the few European capitals that has preserved its historical identity through centuries of wars and natural disasters.

Architecture and cultural beauty of Lisbon

Known as the “City of Seven Hills,” Lisbon offers breathtaking vistas from viewpoints like Miradouro da Senhora do Monte. The city presents a harmonious blend of ancient and modern architecture:

Lisbon, also known as the 'City of Seven Hills'

• Alfama District: With its cobblestone alleys, historic churches, and traditional Fado music, Alfama is the soul of Lisbon. It is the ideal place to experience local culture.

• Belém: Home to the Belém Tower, Jerónimos Monastery, and the Maritime Museum, Belém tells the story of Portugal’s Age of Exploration.

• LX Factory: A former industrial area transformed into an art and cultural hub, featuring shops, cafes, and creative exhibitions that attract both young people and tourists.

Lisbon is also famous for festivals such as Festa de Santo António (June), when streets are filled with music, food, and colors. According to Time Out (2024), Lisbon ranks 4th among the most culturally vibrant cities to visit in Europe.

Economy and lifestyle in Lisbon

Lisbon drives Portugal’s economy, contributing about 40% of the national GDP (INE Portugal, 2024). The city is a hub for finance, technology, and tourism:

• Tourism: Lisbon welcomes over 7 million visitors annually (Turismo de Lisboa, 2024), with destinations such as Commerce Square and the 25 de Abril Bridge.

• Technology and Startups: Lisbon is the second-largest startup hub in Southern Europe, hosting events like Web Summit that attract thousands of global businesses (StartupBlink, 2024).

• Cost of Living: Compared to other EU capitals like Paris or Amsterdam, Lisbon’s living costs are 30–40% lower (Numbeo, 2024), making it attractive for both residency and investment.

Lisbon’s Mediterranean climate, with over 300 days of sunshine per year and an average temperature of 17°C, provides ideal conditions for outdoor living.

Lisbon: the economic engine of Portugal

Experiencing life in Lisbon

Living in Lisbon offers a rich and vibrant experience, from cuisine to modern amenities:

• Cuisine: Lisbon is famous for dishes such as pastel de nata (custard tart), bacalhau (codfish), and fresh seafood. The Time Out Market is a must-visit destination for food lovers.

• Transportation: The metro system, trams (like the legendary tram 28), and buses provide convenient connections. Lisbon International Airport serves over 200 destinations worldwide (ANA Aeroportos, 2024).

• Education: Lisbon has many international schools, including St. Julian’s and Carlucci American School, making it suitable for families planning to settle in the city.

• International community: With a growing expatriate population, Lisbon is easy for newcomers to integrate and feel at home.

Lisbon, the vibrant capital of Portugal

Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, is a perfect blend of historical heritage, vibrant culture, and opportunities for obtaining a second citizenship through the Golden Visa program. With its enduring beauty and strong economic potential, Lisbon is not only a place to visit but also an ideal home for you and your family. Explore the opportunities for settling in Portugal at Lisbon with quoctichthuhai.com today!