11 Unexpected Things to Know About Lisbon Before You Go
Considering planning a trip to Portugal? Then you’re probably looking for things to know before visiting Lisbon. I recently spent almost a week traveling there and learned a lot of cool and unexpected things that I didn’t know before visiting. Keep reading to learn some fun facts about Lisbon.
11 Things to Know About Lisbon
1. You’ll see a lot of cork
First fun fact about Lisbon: Portugal is the largest producer of cork in the world. Cork is both a sustainable and versatile natural product used for a lot more than wine corks. Gift shops around Lisbon have all sorts of cork products including handbags, wallets, shoes, sunglasses cases, and more. I was really shocked by how creative some of the cork products I saw were – you can really make anything out of it! Portugal’s cork industry accounts for more than 50% of the world’s cork supply.
2. “Is that the Golden Gate Bridge?”
Ponte 25 de Abril (25th of April Bridge) will have you doing a double take. Another thing to know about Lisbon is that it is home to another iconic red suspension bridge that was actually built by the exact same company and is painted the same color. Like San Francisco, the location of this bridge is an earthquake-prone area.
3. Their iconic yellow trams are from America
Lisbon is home to an extensive tram system established back in 1873 that was once used as public transport across the hilly city. Now it is considered more of a tourist attraction with only six regular lines remaining. These trams are called Americanos by locals due to their origin in America.
4. Belem Tower was once a prison
Although not what it was initially built for – this tower was used to hold prisoners a few times throughout its history.
5. There are elevators connecting parts of the city
The hilly terrain of Lisbon will test even the most avid walker. However, there are a lot of systems in place to help make hilly areas more accessible – including elevators. There are lifts and elevators around the city that can be used to get from the bottom of one area to the top of another.
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6. Pastel de Nata recipe is a secret
It’s hard to get far in Lisbon without seeing this famous pastry in a shop window. As common as it may seem, the original recipe for Lisbon’s signature custard tart is actually a secret. It is not written down anywhere and is known by only 5 people by heart. Because of this, they are not allowed to ever ride in the same car, boat, or plane. Learn to make this iconic pastry yourself during your visit!
7. “Is that the Christ Redeemer?”
Another landmark that will have you doing a double-take is the Sanctuary of Christ the King. Inspired by the famous Christ the Redeemer statue in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, this monument was built to commemorate how the city was blessed for avoiding the effects of World War II.
8. There’s a museum for everything
Lisbon essentially has a museum for everything. With over 60 museums and exhibitions to choose from, you could visit a different museum every week and it would still take over a year to see them all. From art, architecture, tiles, carriages, fashion, and even money – you’re sure to find a museum that suits your interests here.
9. Graffiti is legal and encouraged
Street art is virtually everywhere you look in the streets of Lisbon. This is because it is viewed as a legitimate form of creative expression for artists that is now supported and encouraged by the Lisbon City Council.
10. The city was once almost completely demolished
In 1755 Lisbon was hit by a 7.7 magnitude earthquake known as the Great Lisbon Earthquake. What made this event particularly catastrophic though, was the tsunami and firestorm that engulfed the city right afterward. These fires burned for almost 6 days after the initial earthquake. This event took the lives of 60,000 people in Lisbon and even more around Portugal.
11. Home to one of the most expensive chapels in the world
Don’t be fooled by the modest outer facade of Igreja de São Roque, this chapel is full of prized Catholic art and intricate gold decor.
And that’s 11 things to know before visiting Lisbon!
Did any of these fun facts about Lisbon surprise you? Let me know in the comments!
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