Ok, you're visiting Lisbon and you really need to visit the Belém Tower, the Jerónimos Monastery and the São Jorge Castle, just to name three of the city's most visited monuments. But what about, if you have some time left in your schedule, visit some not-so-obvious places and be surprised?
From public bathrooms (that's right, a different public bathroom), to a burned-down church and a Lisbon drink palace, Ginja? There are many surprises waiting for you in Lisbon and I present five of them that you cannot miss when visiting the capital of Portugal.
Church of Saint Dominic
Built in 1241, but damaged in the earthquakes of 1531 and 1755, the church is right next to Rossio, on Rua Don Antão de Almada. The surprising fact is that the building, in Mannerist and Baroque styles, suffered a major fire in 1959 and was closed for several decades.
In 1994, with the roof restored and the walls partially painted, the church was reopened with the marks of the fire clearly visible. In fact, it was intentional to leave the marks of the fire so that the event would remain present in the memory of Lisbon residents and visitors who feel impacted by such beauty.
Patriarchal Reservoir
You may have already heard that there are many underground galleries in Lisbon. Since Romans, which will be open to the public daily from 2020, even those in the aqueducts like this one, localized underneath the Príncipe Real garden.
Built between 1860 and 1864 to serve the city of Lisbon's water distribution network, it has a reservoir protected by 31 pillars and a vaulted ceiling. It has been deactivated since the 40s and can be visited through the Water Museum. An impressive place, well worth a visit!
Church of São Roque
Many people pass by it, but miss the great opportunity to get to know it. She is localized next to the Glória lift and next to the São Pedro de Alcantâra Viewpoint and next to Bairro Alto. It's a pity for those who don't visit it, as the beautiful São Roque Church is at the top of the guide's attractions. Lonely Planet – which praises your “inner dazzling” – and is an obligatory stopping point for believers and non-believers alike.
Put it on your itinerary and be surprised by one of the most richly decorated temples in the city. If you like reliquaries, there is also a beautiful collection of pieces of saints. And the museum is a must-visit for anyone who likes sacred art.
Public bathroom
Who would have thought that a public bathroom would be a reason to visit in a city with so many attractions, right? But is! Just over a year ago, readers of the British newspaper The Guardian They chose the bathroom at Terreiro do Paço as one of the places not to get lost in Lisbon.
This bathroom is different, even looking like an art installation, as one of the readers said. The Guardian who visited the place. What sets the place apart is the colors of the toilet paper and the black tone of the walls. For €0.50 you even choose the color of the paper.
Praça do Comércio, 84, Ala Nascente
LX Factory
How about visiting an old set of factories, which was abandoned until 2008 and today houses more than 50 shops, restaurants and creative offices?
That's exactly what you can do when you visit this space located in the Alcântara area, close to the 25 de Abril Bridge. You can spend a day there, there are options for all tastes and budgets and, in addition to the different cuisine, there are many handicrafts and alternatives. Oh, and not forgetting a spectacular bookstore, Ler Devagar, where the books are displayed among the old machines that once operated there.
So, how about putting these different places in your itinerary that we recommend you visit in Lisbon?