Summer School on Social Innovation
About Lisbon
Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, is a vibrant city with fantastic culture and great climate. The city is set in the Lisbon region of Portugal which is in the middle of the country on the Atlantic coast. The river Tagus and the Atlantic Ocean provide a refreshing backdrop to a city with great architectural history.
Legend has it that Lisbon was founded by Ulysses. The name comes from “Olissipo”, which has its origins in the Phoenician words “Allis Ubbo”, meaning “enchanting port”. It was most likely founded by the Phoenicians and styled by the Moores which shows in the strong Arabic influences. It was ruled by the Moors for 450 years. In the 12th century the Christians re conquered the city but it was not until the mid 13th century that Lisboa became the country’s capital.
With the beginning of the Portuguese Age of Discoveries, Lisboa was enriched as a spice and jewellery trade centre. The breakthrough for Portuguese expansion came in 1498 when Vasco da Gama discovered the sea route to India. This was indeed the beginning of a golden age, characterised by the Manueline architectural style named after King Manuel I, with its typical decorative use of maritime motifs. Over the centuries Lisboa naturally grew and changed. When the city centre was almost completely destroyed by the earthquake of 1755, it was rebuilt by Marquise de Pombal , who thus created the Baixa Pombalina, a commercial area that still retains much of its original lay out.
Over the past few years the city has prepared itself for the future. Lisbon held an enormously successful international EXPO in 1998 and the European Football Championship in 2004. As a result, a city that was already vibrant and diverse rapidly acquired a more modern and avant-garde dimension.
Lisbon offers the climate, colours, gastronomy, history, diverse cultural life and a breathtaking landscape that will make your visit memorable. Lisbon always offer something special to its visitors and however many descriptions you have read, you will only know which Lisbon is yours once you have arrived there.
For up to date information about whats going on in Lisbon - visit http://lecool.com/cities/lisboa/subscriptions/new to view a selection of concerts, djs, exhibitions, odd movies and other cultural events and happenings, a guide to the city's famous bars, restaurants, shopping and other experiences.
