Due to its unique location at the river Tagus ‘estuary, its close proximity to the Atlantic Ocean and mild mediterranean climate, the Lisbon area has been inhabited since the prehistorical era. Although a roman legend claims that Lisbon was founded by Ulisses, the city’s origin remains uncertain and several cultures settled here over the ages including the Phoenicians, the Romans and the Northern African Muslims. Each of them added typical features to the town contributing for Lisbon’s distinctive character.

With a rich heritage, including a wide variety of monuments and museums, Lisbon has much to offer for. Since the 15th century, it has been a major point of contact between the Old and New Worlds as well as between East and West. This conferred a certain cosmopolitan atmosphere to a city combining the old and new, tradition and innovation in which the Historical Centre, the riverbank and Belém areas stand out between numerous sites of interest.

Finally, a brief reference to the rich and diverse Portuguese gastronomy, plentiful of tasty delights, including fish, seafood, traditional cheeses and pastries, namely the “pastel de Belém” (Portuguese custard tart).