After spending two weeks in Portugal, some highlights stood
out. In no particular order, here are
some of the things that amused or amazed us.
Portuguese Parking
Moorish Ruins,Architecture and Decorations
A major earthquake in 1755, with an epicenter north of Lisbon, destroyed huge numbers of buildings in the south of Portugal. Some areas were rebuilt, especially in Lisbon, but it was not uncommon to find ruins everywhere, even in the middle of towns.
A major earthquake in 1755, with an epicenter north of Lisbon, destroyed huge numbers of buildings in the south of Portugal. Some areas were rebuilt, especially in Lisbon, but it was not uncommon to find ruins everywhere, even in the middle of towns.
Moorish architecture is somewhat spare, but the colour and flower decorations were artistic. The window planters in this home, and the ones in someone's yard below were very typical.
Random and Whimsical Art
I cannot tell you how much art was everywhere. On traffic circles, patios, streets.....
I cannot tell you how much art was everywhere. On traffic circles, patios, streets.....
Outdoor Cafes
Outdoor cafes were the norm, whether you were in the city or the country. There was always an opportunity to sit, relax, and let time go by while people-watching.
Outdoor cafes were the norm, whether you were in the city or the country. There was always an opportunity to sit, relax, and let time go by while people-watching.
Gorgeous Beaches
Beach lovers (or surf lovers), had miles of beaches to walk. In the summer season, these beaches will be crawling with tourists, so plan your vacation for this time of year.
Beach lovers (or surf lovers), had miles of beaches to walk. In the summer season, these beaches will be crawling with tourists, so plan your vacation for this time of year.
Cobblestone Sidewalks
Cobblestones were the norm here, and stonemasons still have a corner on the art. Nothing about these cobblestones were boring.
Lush Wildflowers
Cobblestones were the norm here, and stonemasons still have a corner on the art. Nothing about these cobblestones were boring.
Lush Wildflowers
Tilework
All the old Moorish buildings had some tile on their frontage. These themes were replicated in dishware, decorations, pots......whatever struck their fancy.
All the old Moorish buildings had some tile on their frontage. These themes were replicated in dishware, decorations, pots......whatever struck their fancy.
Ultimately, it was a wonderful mix of a different
perspective, the beautiful but distinctive sights, and flavours of foods, wines
and other beverages that were known and yet so unique to Portugal.
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