The barrio is a deadalean labyrinth of
narrow, windy streets and steep stairs opening up on irregularly shaped
squares. Houses, alleys, rooftops with amazing view on Tejo have been
centenarian witness of Lisbona’s troublesome history. The relaxing melancholy
you feel when strolling around these streets reminds of the feeling when old,
wise men tell you of the past, speaking with nostalgia and cold disillusion.
And indifference for the future, perhaps.
The
saudade lisboeta has its home in this
very neighbourhood: that indescribable feeling that is a cocktail of
melancholy, sadness and nostalgia. In these streets you can hear the fado notes
grovelling out of the bar’s doors – the emotional tune of Portuguese nights.
Alfama
is not just a silent relic of a forgotten past, though. It is a lively
marketplace of nationalities. Pass by the stands at the Feira
da Ladra or visiting the Pantheon or
the São Vicente de Fora monastery;
dwell in the plethora of bars and private clubs with stunning panorama
terraces: they will warm up your night that falls discreet on this
architectural gem.
Every
June, San Miguel square gets packed up with people celebrating with litres of
sangria and plenty of jovial moods.
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