A Photo Marathon in Lisbon’s Alfama
If you pass by Alfama this Saturday, you’ll probably see an unusually large number of people with cameras in their hands. They’ll be taking part of the third Alfama Digital Photo Marathon, where between 10AM and 10PM they photograph all the details that give this Moorish, medieval neighborhood its special charm. This year’s theme is the five senses, so participants will have to have their eyes, ears, nose, hands, and taste buds extra sensitive to capture a special instant or often-overlooked sights. In order to participate you must sign up here or at the Fado Museum. It costs 20 euros and in the end there will be different prizes ranging from a photography course plus 100 euros and dinner for two at an Alfama restaurant, to a special offer from a local bookshop.
But the prizes should not be the incentive to go up and down Alfama’s lanes and alleys. Those who enjoy photography will want to do it for the experience, and to spend a day in the parallel world that is Alfama. Although it’s right next to downtown, a trip to Alfama is like escaping the chaos of the city into a village where old ladies chat from their windows, laundry hangs drying from balconies, kids play on the streets, dogs sleep in the corners, and fantastic river and city views are seen from unexpected places. It’s not a place to see, but a place to be felt, and that’s part of the goal of this event. In between the photo sessions there will be short theatrical performances, live music, art installations, and crafts on display along the way.
