Alfama Photo Walk with an Instax Instant Camera in your Hands

We'll meet under the Arco do Castelo, where we'll begin our photo walk. Although we won’t enter the Castelo de São Jorge (there is an admission fee), we will explore the beautiful Castelo neighborhood and walk along the existing fortified walls. Here, I'll provide you with your Instax camera and show you how to use it. In this initial part of our photo walk, you’ll start experimenting with the camera's filters and effects. I’ll help you choose a theme for your photographs to focus your attention and truly observe your surroundings.

After strolling around Castelo through its quaint and quieter streets, we'll head to Miradouro do Recolhimento. This is the first miradouro that we'll visit, offering a secluded and less frequented spot to see the stunning views of Alfama from the hilltop.

Along this street is the Castelo São Jorge's Alcáçova wall, an integral part of Lisbon's historic fortifications. As we walk along this ancient wall, you'll discover its rich history and strategic significance. Built during the Moorish period, the Alcáçova wall served as a defensive barrier to protect the castle and the surrounding city. This well-preserved structure offers a glimpse into the past, with its sturdy stone construction and historical importance.

Next, we’ll make our way down to the Miradouro and Igreja da Santa Luzia, a highlight of our photo walk. This picturesque spot offers more than just stunning views over Alfama and the Tagus River. The exterior walls of the church and miradouro are decorated with traditional azulejos depicting historical scenes, such as the conquest of Lisbon in 1147 and the Praça do Comércio before the 1755 earthquake. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to capture details of these tiles and the scenic vistas they frame. This spot allows for creative experimentation with your Instax camera, blending historical artistry with panoramic views to create truly memorable photographs.

Next we'll visit Miradouro das Portas do Sol, or "Gates of the Sun," is one of Alfama's most iconic viewpoints. Historically, this area was part of the defensive walls that surrounded the medieval city of Lisbon. The viewpoint gets its name from its strategic position facing east, where the sun rises, symbolizing hope and new beginnings. From here, you'll get breathtaking panoramic views over Alfama, including the winding streets, terracotta rooftops, and the shimmering Tagus River. The viewpoint also offers a glimpse of significant landmarks such as the São Vicente de Fora Monastery and the National Pantheon, providing a perfect backdrop for your photography.

Next, we'll wander through the labyrinth of streets in the lower part of Alfama, closest to the river. Here, you'll get a real feel for the district's medeival urban grid and get a glimpse Alfama's strong social and cultural fabric. There's no wrong turn—every street is filled with interesting views and details for you to discover with your Instax camera.

Next, we’ll visit the Chafariz d'El Rei, one of Lisbon's oldest fountains, built in the 16th century. This historic fountain played a crucial role in providing water to the city and highlights the architectural style of the Renaissance. Water has always been vital to Alfama, as evidenced by its name, derived from the Arabic word "al-hamma," meaning "hot springs," which reflects the area’s historical significance as a place with natural water sources.

We’ll conclude our photo walk in front of the Casa dos Bicos, a landmark renowned for its unique façade adorned with diamond-shaped stones, a prime example of early 16th-century architecture. Originally built as a palace, this historic building now houses the José Saramago Foundation. The Casa dos Bicos stands out not only for its distinctive design but also for its rich history, reflecting Lisbon's diverse architectural heritage. Here, we’ll pause to relax in a nearby café or green area, where you’ll have the opportunity to review your photographs and select the ones you’d like to print and take home as a memorable souvenir of your experience.