The Portuguese are known for their magnificent tile work. Azulejo (Wikipedia): Portuguese: [ɐzuˈleʒu],) from the Arabic word Zellige زليج is a form of Portuguese or Spanish painted, tin-glazed, ceramic tile work. Intricate scenes are painted on one, or sometimes a setting is spread over several tiles. Often times tiles are used to decorate the outside of buildings. In older parts of the city (and other cities) the entire front of buildings are covered in Moorish design tiles. Tiles are also used for inside decoration, and the effect is quite dynamic. In the town of Beja we visited a convent which boasted glorious hallways of these exquisite tile. (The mural above is from the town of Coimbra--the location of one of the oldest universities in Europe).
In Lisbon we were able to visit the Monastery of Jeronimos (Mosterio dos Jeronimos), an old Monastery where Vasco De Gama is entombed. The high vaulted ceilings in this cathedral are similar to others contracted during this time period, but are spectacular none the less.
Fittingly across the park towards the river is the Tower of Belem (which happens to be Portuguese for Bethlehem). This is the location where many of the famous voyages would embark, such as those of Vasco De Gama, Bartholomew Diaz, and others.
Down from this point is another iconic Lisbon marker, that of the Discoverer's Monument.
We played with our friends at the Park of Nations at a fabulous fountain, and dined in style at the fantastic restaurant Chimarrao. All in all, Lisbon was spectacular.
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