Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Mosteiro dos Jerónimos
Dom Manuel I's fantastical tribute to the great explorers of the 15th century. (
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)
Convento de Cristo
Former headquarters of the Knights Templar, this Unesco World Heritage site is stunning to be-
hold. (
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)
Conímbriga
The best-preserved Roman ruins on the Iberian Peninsula provide a window into the rise and fall of the
once great empire. (
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)
Palácio Nacional de Mafra
The construction of this exuberant palace with its 1200 rooms nearly bankrupted the nation.
(
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)
Music
The national music of Portugal is undoubtedly fado, that stirring, melancholic sound that's so prevalent in Lisbon (its
birthplace) and Coimbra. Other genres also have their followers, and you can catch live rock, jazz and a wide range of
world sounds.
The Alfama
The birthplace of fado has many authentic places in which to hear it live - as well as tourist traps to avoid.
(
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)
A Capella
Coimbra also has a fado-loving heart; this converted 14th-century chapel is the best place to hear it live.
(
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)
Festival do Sudoeste
One of Portugal's biggest music fests erupts each August in the seaside town of Zambujeira do
Mar. (
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)
Casa da Música
Rem Koolhaas' concert hall is both an architectural masterpiece and a vibrant set piece for year-round
music events. (
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)
Music Box
Long-lived Lisbon space hosting an eclectic line-up of rock, folk, funk and more. (
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)
IF YOU LIKE… SCENIC TRAIN RIDES
The Douro line heading east to Pocinho (
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) has stunning views of the river and vineyard-covered hill-
sides.
Art
In the Portuguese art world, quality trumps quantity. You may not find massive art institutions here, but you will find
galleries showcasing unique works from the past and present - including Portugal's own home-grown legends.
Museu Calouste Gulbenkian
One of Lisbon's finest museums houses an epic collection of magnificent artwork from
East and West. (
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)
Museu Colecção Berardo
In Belém, this free museum hosts some of Portugal's most daring exhibits. (
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)
Casa das Histórias Paula Rego
Cascais' best exhibition space celebrates the artwork of Paula Rego, one of Portugal's
finest living painters. (
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)
