James's Solo Exploration of Lisbon

A Day of Discoveries in Belém

Today marked the beginning of my Lisbon adventure, and what a start it was! I dove headfirst into the heart of Belém, a district brimming with historical significance and architectural wonders. From the iconic Belém Tower, a stunning Manueline monument in Lisbon, rich in history and a symbol of Portugal's Age of Discoveries.


Explore Belém Tower, a stunning Manueline monument in Lisbon, rich in history and a symbol of Portugal's Age of Discoveries.
to the awe-inspiring Jerónimos Monastery and the poignant Monument to the Discoveries, every corner told a story of Portugal's rich maritime past. It's funny, before I left Berlin, Lena was teasing me about becoming a history buff, but honestly, standing here, surrounded by centuries of history, it's hard not to be captivated.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at A Brasileira, a café steeped in history. The atmosphere was buzzing with locals and tourists alike, all eager to start their day with a traditional Portuguese pastry and a strong coffee. I savored a *pastel de nata*, its creamy custard filling and flaky crust providing the perfect fuel for the day ahead. The café itself is a beautiful space, reminiscent of old-world charm, making it a delightful spot to soak in the local ambiance. It felt like stepping back in time, imagining the writers and intellectuals who once frequented this iconic establishment. I even made a note in my travel journal to research more about Fernando Pessoa, a famous Portuguese poet who was a regular here. Maybe I'll pick up one of his books at A Vida Portuguesa later this week.

Fueled and ready, I made my way to Belém Tower, a UNESCO World Heritage site that once served as a fortress guarding the entrance to Lisbon's harbor. The tower's intricate Manueline architecture was breathtaking, with its delicate stone carvings and ornate details. I climbed to the top, taking in panoramic views of the Tagus River and the surrounding landscape. The crisp February air invigorated me as I imagined the countless ships that had sailed from this very spot, embarking on voyages of discovery to distant lands. It was a humbling experience, connecting with the spirit of exploration that shaped Portugal's identity.

To travel is to discover that everyone is wrong about other countries. - Aldous Huxley

Next on my itinerary was the Jerónimos Monastery, another UNESCO World Heritage site and a masterpiece of Manueline architecture. The sheer scale of the monastery was astounding, its vast cloisters and ornate chapels a testament to the wealth and power of the Portuguese Empire during the Age of Discovery. I wandered through the cloisters, marveling at the intricate details of the stone carvings, each telling a story of Portugal's maritime achievements. The soft light filtering through the stained-glass windows created an ethereal atmosphere, adding to the sense of reverence and awe. I paid my respects at the tomb of Vasco da Gama, the legendary explorer who discovered the sea route to India, a pivotal moment in world history. Thinking about Sophia, I picked up a small book about Portuguese explorers at the monastery gift shop – something to spark her own curiosity about the world.

Just a short walk from the monastery stood the Monument to the Discoveries, a towering tribute to Portugal's Age of Exploration. The monument's imposing size and striking design captured the spirit of adventure and innovation that characterized this era. I admired the statues of famous Portuguese explorers, navigators, and cartographers, each playing a vital role in expanding the known world. I took the elevator to the top of the monument, where I was rewarded with stunning views of Belém and the Tagus River. From this vantage point, I could appreciate the strategic importance of Lisbon as a gateway to the world, a hub of trade, and cultural exchange. The compass rose at the foot of the monument, a gift from South Africa, was particularly striking, a reminder of the global reach of Portuguese exploration. The monument stands 170 feet tall and was designed to commemorate the Age of Discoveries in Portugal. It was inaugurated in 1960, on the fifth centenary of Prince Henry the Navigator, who discovered the Azores, Madeira, and Cape Verde.

For lunch, I ventured to daPrata52 - Petiscos Tapas, a local favorite known for its delicious Portuguese tapas. I sampled a variety of dishes, each bursting with flavor and showcasing the country's culinary heritage. The *pica-pau*, tender pieces of beef marinated in garlic and wine, was a particular highlight, as was the *ameijoas à Bulhão Pato*, clams cooked in a fragrant broth of garlic, cilantro, and white wine. The restaurant had a cozy and inviting atmosphere, the perfect place to relax and refuel after a busy morning of sightseeing. The staff was friendly and welcoming, eager to share their recommendations and insights into Portuguese cuisine. It was a delightful culinary experience, a true taste of Lisbon. I made a mental note to try and recreate some of these dishes when I get back to Berlin – Lena would love it!

After lunch, I indulged in a spot of shopping at A Vida Portuguesa, a charming store that celebrates Portugal's traditional crafts and products. The store was a treasure trove of unique souvenirs and gifts, from hand-painted ceramics to artisanal soaps and gourmet foods. I picked up a few items for Lena and Sophia, wanting to share a piece of Portugal with them. The store's atmosphere was nostalgic and inviting, a reminder of the country's rich cultural heritage. The staff was passionate about their products, eager to share the stories behind each item and the artisans who created them. It was a delightful shopping experience, a chance to discover the authentic flavors and crafts of Portugal. I found myself particularly drawn to the beautifully packaged soaps and the colorful ceramics, each a work of art in its own right.

As evening approached, I made my way to Pensao Amor, a bar with a unique and intriguing history. Once a former brothel, the bar has been transformed into a stylish and eclectic space, with vintage décor, live music, and a lively atmosphere. I sipped on a *ginjinha*, a traditional Portuguese cherry liqueur, while soaking in the ambiance and listening to the sounds of a live jazz band. The bar was filled with locals and tourists alike, all eager to experience its unique charm and history. It was a fascinating glimpse into Lisbon's past, a reminder of the city's vibrant and sometimes scandalous history. The bar's décor was particularly captivating, with its red velvet walls, antique furniture, and vintage photographs. It felt like stepping back in time, into a world of glamour and intrigue.

For dinner, I treated myself to a memorable meal at Restaurante Come Prima, an Italian restaurant known for its authentic cuisine and cozy atmosphere. I savored a plate of homemade pasta, cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor. The restaurant's ambiance was warm and inviting, the perfect place to unwind after a long day of exploring. The staff was attentive and friendly, eager to ensure that every guest had a memorable dining experience. The restaurant's Italian charm was a welcome change of pace, a reminder of the diverse culinary influences that have shaped Lisbon's gastronomic landscape. I thoroughly enjoyed the meal, the pasta was cooked perfectly and the atmosphere was great.

As the day drew to a close, I reflected on my first day in Lisbon. It had been a whirlwind of sights, sounds, and flavors, a journey through the city's rich history and vibrant culture. From the iconic landmarks of Belém to the charming streets of the city center, every corner had revealed a new facet of Lisbon's identity. I felt grateful for the opportunity to explore this fascinating city, to immerse myself in its unique atmosphere, and to connect with its people and traditions. I'm already looking forward to tomorrow's adventures, which will include exploring Alfama, visiting Castelo de São Jorge, and experiencing the soulful sounds of Fado. I'm particularly excited about visiting the Feira da Ladra, Lisbon's famous flea market, where I hope to find some unique souvenirs and hidden treasures. And of course, I'm eager to sample more of Lisbon's culinary delights, including a traditional Portuguese breakfast at Eating Bear and a delicious lunch at Taberna Sal Grosso. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings!

My only regret today was forgetting to pack sunscreen and a power adapter. Lesson learned! I'll be sure to pick those up tomorrow before heading out to explore more of Lisbon.

I'm off to bed now, eager to rest up for another day of exploration. Goodnight from Lisbon!