During the 15th and 16th centuries, Lisbon was renowned for its harbor. The city benefited from the wealth brought back from the Indies by Vacso de Gama and by the discovery of Brazil by Pedro Alvares Cabral. New commercial routes opened up, and precious metals, rare wood, spices, ivory, jewels, and luxurious fabrics could be found in Lisbon in abundance.
Neither the 1755 earthquake, nor the 1807 French occupation, nor the disappearance of the colonial empire could diminish the magnificence of this city.
Old Lisbon has preserved its picturesque history: its palaces and monuments, mosaic public places, pastel facades, winding back streets, its monasteries, medieval cathedral, and the beautiful church of Sao Vincente.
Over 170 color photographs capture the charming ambiance of this historic city.
