What is the capital of Portugal?
Lisbon, the capital and largest city of Portugal, holds the distinction of being one of the oldest cities globally. It stands as the second-oldest European capital, following Athens, and predates several other modern European capitals by centuries. Initially established by pre-Celtic tribes and later inhabited by Phoenicians, Julius Caesar elevated it to a municipium named Felicitas Julia, appending the term to the existing name Olissipo.
When did Lisbon became the capital of Portugal?
Lisbon has been the capital of Portugal for centuries. The city became the capital in the 13th century, specifically in 1255, during the reign of King Afonso III.
About the capital of Portugal
Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, is often referred to as the 'City of Seven Hills,' though it actually boasts more than seven hills. The choice of the number seven is believed to have been arbitrary, possibly influenced by a desire to evoke the image of the Holy City of Rome.
Lisbon safeguards some highly coveted recipes, notably the pastels de nata from Pasteis de Belem. The centuries-old secret recipe for these revered custard tarts has never been documented. Only three bakers hold the privileged knowledge, and they are prohibited from traveling together, a superstition that adds an extra layer of secrecy.
The tradition of tea time, synonymous with English culture, finds its roots in Portugal. It was introduced to Great Britain by Portuguese princess Catherine de Braganza, who brought the custom with her upon marrying Charles II and relocating to the UK, including the introduction of loose leaf tea.
Contrary to common perceptions about graffiti, Lisbon's city hall embraces street art through its public art program, the Gallery of Urban Art. Instead of traditional gallery spaces, artists are commissioned to create murals on old, decaying buildings. Notable works include pieces by Vhils, often regarded as Portugal's equivalent to Banksy.
Lisbon's iconic yellow trams, a symbol often associated with the city, were inspired by American tram designs. Locals affectionately refer to them as "Americanos."
The city is home to Bertrand Books, recognized as the world's oldest operating bookstore since its establishment in 1732. Additionally, Lisbon hosts one of the world's smallest bookstores, where one person can peruse an impressive collection of 3,000 books. The store's owner, Simone, may need to step outside to accommodate visitors due to the limited space.
Lisbon safeguards some highly coveted recipes, notably the pastels de nata from Pasteis de Belem. The centuries-old secret recipe for these revered custard tarts has never been documented. Only three bakers hold the privileged knowledge, and they are prohibited from traveling together, a superstition that adds an extra layer of secrecy.
The tradition of tea time, synonymous with English culture, finds its roots in Portugal. It was introduced to Great Britain by Portuguese princess Catherine de Braganza, who brought the custom with her upon marrying Charles II and relocating to the UK, including the introduction of loose leaf tea.
Contrary to common perceptions about graffiti, Lisbon's city hall embraces street art through its public art program, the Gallery of Urban Art. Instead of traditional gallery spaces, artists are commissioned to create murals on old, decaying buildings. Notable works include pieces by Vhils, often regarded as Portugal's equivalent to Banksy.
Lisbon's iconic yellow trams, a symbol often associated with the city, were inspired by American tram designs. Locals affectionately refer to them as "Americanos."
The city is home to Bertrand Books, recognized as the world's oldest operating bookstore since its establishment in 1732. Additionally, Lisbon hosts one of the world's smallest bookstores, where one person can peruse an impressive collection of 3,000 books. The store's owner, Simone, may need to step outside to accommodate visitors due to the limited space.
Capital of Portugal on map
Lisbon stands at the geographical coordinates of 38°42′49.75″N 9°8′21.79″W, positioned at the estuary of the Tagus River and holds the distinction of being the westernmost capital on mainland Europe.
The western expanse of Lisbon is embraced by the vast Monsanto Forest Park, a sprawling urban park covering 10 km2 (4 sq mi), ranking among the largest in Europe and encompassing 10% of the municipality.
Encompassing an area of 100.05 km2 (39 sq mi), the city's limits align precisely with the boundaries of its municipality, a departure from the norm for many major cities. Beyond this, the urbanized sector of the Lisbon metropolitan area, commonly referred to as Greater Lisbon (Portuguese: Grande Lisboa), includes various administratively designated cities and municipalities situated on the northern bank of the Tagus River. The broader Lisbon metropolitan area extends to encompass the Setúbal Peninsula to the south.
The western expanse of Lisbon is embraced by the vast Monsanto Forest Park, a sprawling urban park covering 10 km2 (4 sq mi), ranking among the largest in Europe and encompassing 10% of the municipality.
Encompassing an area of 100.05 km2 (39 sq mi), the city's limits align precisely with the boundaries of its municipality, a departure from the norm for many major cities. Beyond this, the urbanized sector of the Lisbon metropolitan area, commonly referred to as Greater Lisbon (Portuguese: Grande Lisboa), includes various administratively designated cities and municipalities situated on the northern bank of the Tagus River. The broader Lisbon metropolitan area extends to encompass the Setúbal Peninsula to the south.
Why is Lisbon the capital of Portugal?
Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, holds historical significance as it has been a central hub for trade, exploration, and cultural exchange for centuries. The city's strategic coastal location along the Atlantic Ocean played a crucial role during the Age of Discovery when Portugal established maritime dominance. Lisbon became the focal point for explorers like Vasco da Gama and Ferdinand Magellan, contributing to Portugal's global influence. Over time, the city evolved into a political, economic, and cultural center, solidifying its status as the capital of Portugal. The rich history, geographical advantages, and cultural heritage of Lisbon collectively shaped its role as the nation's capital.
What was the capital of Portugal before Lisbon?
Coimbra, one of the oldest cities in Portugal, served as the capital of the country before Lisbon assumed that status. The city boasts a rich history spanning millennia and was the capital of Portugal from 1131 to 1255 during the reign of the first Portuguese king, Afonso Henriques. Key features of the city include its historical significance, medieval architecture, narrow streets, and the presence of one of the oldest universities in Europe—the University of Coimbra, founded in 1290.
Is Porto the second capital of Portugal?
Porto, also known as Oporto, is the second-largest city in Portugal after Lisbon, serving as the capital of the Porto District and a major urban center on the Iberian Peninsula. The city proper, encompassing the entire municipality of Porto, is relatively compact compared to its extensive metropolitan area, hosting approximately 231,800 residents within a municipality covering just 41.42 km2 (16 sq mi). In contrast, Porto's metropolitan area extends across 2,395 km2 (925 sq mi).
Why isn't Porto the capital of Portugal?
While Porto is an important and historic city in Portugal, it did not become the capital because Lisbon had already established itself as the political and administrative center. The decision to designate a capital is typically based on a combination of historical, cultural, economic, and administrative considerations, and it is not uncommon for a country's capital to be a city with a long history and central location.
