Lisbon’s new Oceanarium is a true marvel of modern engineering. Built as part of Nations Park for the 1998 Expo, the Oceanarium has become one of Lisbon’s most popular tourist draws. Inside the new building are a number of smaller aquariums all centered around an enormous central tank which...
The Portuguese have been experts at porcelain, ceramics and tile for centuries. Many of the exteriors of older buildings in Lima are covered in centuries-old tile, as it was discovered long ago that doing so would keep homes cool and dry. In addition to this practical application, Portuguese tile...
The Lisbon Zoological Garden is a modest zoo on well-kept grounds slightly outside of the downtown area. The zoo is home to many traditional favorites like lions, giraffes, elephants and bears, but the Koala Bears probably steal the show. There is a large pool where trained dolphins and sea lions...
St George’s Castle (Castelo São Jorge) is a Lisbon landmark, occupying the symbolic heart and the highest hill of the city. Because of its strategic location, the hill has always been fortified, dating back to Roman days. The castle dates back to the pre-reconquest days: there was a legendary...
Situated on the Lisbon waterfront, the bleached-white Belém tower is a local landmark and one of the city’s must-sees. It is a monument to Portugal’s glory as a great maritime nation. Constructed from 1515 to 1520, it is located on the harbor where so many voyages of discovery, exploration and...