Travel journalist Paul Bloomfield and author/journalist Barry Hatton take us on a journey through Lisbon's tumultuous past, from earthquakes to revolutions. They discuss the city's cultural blend, the devastating earthquake of 1755, the rebuilding process, Salazar's rise to power, and must-visit historical sites like St. George's Castle.
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Quick takeaways
Lisbon's tumultuous history includes being coveted by empires, enduring earthquakes, sieges, and political revolutions.
Lisbon's origins predate Greek hero Ulysses and its strategic location made it a hub of trade and cultural exchange.
The devastating earthquake of 1755 marked a turning point in Lisbon's history, leading to its restructuring and reshaping.
Deep dives
Lisbon's Tumultuous Past: From Devastation to Resilience
Lisbon has endured a tumultuous history of rise and fall, from being coveted by various empires to nurturing a diverse cultural heritage. The city has faced earthquakes, sieges, and political revolutions, with each event leaving an indelible mark on its streets and sites.
Origins and Roman Influence: Lisbon's Ancient Past
Lisbon's origin myths and earliest inhabitants predate the famous Greek hero Ulysses. Archaeological discoveries have revealed the presence of Phoenician and Roman settlements, indicating its significance as a natural harbor and a key location for trade and cultural exchange.
The Golden Age of Exploration: Lisbon's Role in Shaping the World
During the Age of Exploration, Lisbon became a powerful and wealthy city, serving as the launchpad for Portuguese navigators who discovered new trade routes and explored distant lands. Its strategic location on the Tagus River made it a hub of international trade and cultural exchange, attracting riches, spices, and diverse influences from around the world.
The 1755 Earthquake: Destruction and Rebirth
Lisbon's darkest day came in 1755 when a massive earthquake, followed by a tsunami and fires, devastated the city. This event marked a turning point in Lisbon's history, leading to the restructuring of the city under the guidance of the Marquis of Pombal. The rebuilding efforts brought about a new gridiron pattern in downtown Lisbon and reshaped the city's growth.
Revolution and Modernization: Lisbon in the 20th Century
Lisbon experienced significant political and social upheaval in the 20th century. It witnessed the fall of the monarchy, the rise of dictator Antonio Salazar, and the subsequent Carnation Revolution, which led to the transition to democracy. The city continued to evolve, with urban developments, cultural events like the World Fair, and transformations brought about by social and political changes.
In our series exploring the sights and stories of Europe’s most fascinating historic cities, Barry Hatton charts the tumultuous ups and downs of the Portuguese city coveted by many and devastated by earthquakes
In episode five of our series exploring the sights and stories of Europe’s most fascinating, enduring and historic destinations, travel journalist Paul Bloomfield is joined by author and journalist Barry Hatton for a journey to Lisbon. Together they chart the Portuguese city’s tumultuous past – as a place coveted by many and devastated by earthquakes, it has risen and fallen many times over the centuries. Along the way Barry visits some of the key people and places that shaped the city on the Tigris estuary, uncovering some top places to visit and key travel tips for insights into its heritage.
