Hidden Gems in Lisbon: Roman Ruins and Unusual Sites
While Lisbon is famous for its vibrant culture, vivacious nightlife, and historic monuments, there are lesser-known sites that offer a profound glimpse into the city's ancient heritage and rich history. This guide will take you through some of the unique and fascinating places to explore, ensuring your visit to Lisbon is both memorable and educational.
Discovering Roman Lisbon
When visiting Lisbon, it's hard to imagine that the city was once a significant part of the Ancient Roman Empire. However, there are plenty of traces of Roman influence scattered throughout the Portuguese capital, waiting to be discovered.
The Roman Theater and Museu do Teatro Romano
Start your journey with the Museu do Teatro Romano (Roman Theater Museum). Just near S. Jorge Castle, you'll find a fenced open-air archaeological excavation, comprising a set of half-ruined columns and stone seats. These ruins may not look like much to the untrained eye, but they form one of the most important monuments of the city once known by its Roman name Olisipo. The museum next door provides valuable context on the city's cultural layers and influences over time. Entrance is free until 2:00 p.m. on Sundays, national holidays, International Museum Day, and on June 13th, Lisbon's holiday.
Hidden Roman Ruins Under a Bank
During the 1755 earthquake, many structures in Lisbon were destroyed, and much of the city's cultural heritage was entombed under new constructions. However, when Millennium BCP bank needed renovations in the early 1990s, they discovered 2,500 years of history. The Núcleo Arqueológico da Rua dos Correeiros now allows free access to these ruins, with guided tours available daily except on Sundays and national holidays.
A Roman Fish Factory Under a Foundation
Combining old and new, the Casa dos Bicos (House of the Eaves) houses both a foundation dedicated to a Nobel Prize winner and Roman ruins. The building, added to the original 16th-century structure, features a first-floor dedicated to archeological remains, including fragments of a 1st-century AD Roman fish processing unit. If the fish factory seems too modest, you can explore everyday pieces that predate the 1755 earthquake, some of which are rare findings.
Underground Roman Galleries
During International Museum Day in mid-May, visitors can explore the underground Roman galleries in the Baixa neighborhood. Accidentally discovered during post-1755 earthquake reconstruction, these galleries offer a glimpse into Roman engineering and daily life. However, planning and comfort are essential, as visits require draining and rerouting traffic. Admission fees of €1.00 per person help ensure organization. Make sure to wear comfortable, waterproof shoes and mind your head during your visit.
Exploring Lisbon's Unique Attractions
For those looking to avoid crowded tourist spots and experience the city's true essence, Coimbra, Leiria, Constancia, and Braga are recommended. Each city offers its unique blend of history, architecture, and culture, making them ideal alternatives to the bustling Lisbon downtown.
When in Lisbon, consider exploring lesser-known neighborhoods such as the Praa do Comércio, northwest towards traditional neighborhoods with coffee shops and restaurants galore, or northeast towards large churches, castles, and more dining options. Trams and walking are highly recommended to navigate the city's slopes and enjoy its charm.
Aside from rich history, Lisbon is renowned for its fantastic cuisine. While popular restaurants might sometimes disappoint, choosing smaller, lesser-known eateries can provide a superior dining experience in terms of flavor and value. Enjoy Lisbon at its finest!