Day #2. We decided to explore other areas of Lisbon, especially the Alfama neighborhood in and around the castle, and then further west to Belem. Alfama is a very old neighborhood with many very narrow winding streets and alleyways that are easy to get lost in. We visited the castle, Lisbon’s oldest cathedral (11th century), the pantheon (a museum), and many interesting neighborhoods. Then west to Belem which is on the Tagus River. The area is now the city’s museum row with an excellent history museum in an old monestary, and maritime museum. Also the Belem tower built initially to welcome strangers to the city, but also to serve as a sentry. Just down the road is a modern carved tribute to all of Portugal’s famous explorers. We finished our Lisbon visit with a visit to the city’s oldest bakery, a real treat.
