Lisbon sits on the Tagus River, granting it access to the coast that contributed to Portugal becoming one of the world's most successful trading nations. Explorers such as Vasco da Gama, Magellan, and Bartolomeu Dias sailed under Portuguese patronage, discovering new lands and establishing trade routes. The city flourished, with much of the wealth from its colonies invested in grand architecture. On the morning of All Saints Day in 1755, a 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck Lisbon, followed by tsunamis and fires that devastated the city. Over 75% of the population perished. Today, Lisbon reflects this history, with few buildings predating the 18th century. The city was rebuilt with wide boulevards, elegant facades, and parklands, all complemented by opulent Baroque interiors and distinctive black-and-white tiled pavements. Lisbon's compact size makes it easy to explore, with hillside suburbs accessible by trams and funiculars, and a vibrant waterfront that continues its historic trading legacy. We disembark Douglas Mawson and join a locally guided tour of Lisbon. The city's story unfolds as we visit the suburb of Belem, with its Jeronimos Monastery, where we hear more of Vasco da Gama's adventures; the waterfront memorial of Monumento aos Descobrimentos, honoring Prince Henry the Navigator and his fellow explorers; and the Torre de Belem - the 16th-century fortification that acted as the gateway to Lisbon for all seafarers. This insightful tour tells tales of exploration, colonization, and devastation, drawn together by the history of a city the influence of which has shaped much of our modern-day world. Near the famed Cais do Sodre train station, sits the beautiful building of the Mercado da Ribeira with its Moorish-style dome. To end our tour, we visit this famous market and its popular 'Time Out' food complex. Lisbon's populace has shopped for fresh fruit, vegetables, fish, and meat here since 1882, with the market's latest innovation including 30 'pop-ups' offering petiscos (Portuguese tapas) and traditional products such as cheeses, cured hams, smoked sausages, fish conserves, wines and more. Our local guide introduces us to a variety of Portuguese specialties, such as pasteis de nata - the Portuguese tart, a national specialty, with a rich egg custard nestled in shatteringly crisp pastry. Take time to explore and enjoy lunch (own expense), before transferring to your hotel mid-afternoon. This evening, we gather to celebrate our journey at a Farewell Event. Accommodation: Lisbon Hotel ...
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