Feira da Ladra
Lisbon's flea market is called locally the Feira da Ladra or "Thieve's Market" (in the original Portuguese, it is a woman thief!). A market of this type is thought to have
been in place in Lisbon since the 12th Century and the name Feira da Ladra was first mentioned in the 17th Century.
Today, the traders here are perfectly legal, and they show their wares in the Campo de Santa Clara street, in the São Vicente de Fora district of the city,
close to Alfama. The market starts
at the Arco de São Vicente, an arch near where the famous
Tram 28 stops.
From the market, the impressive
Santa Engracia Church, or the National Pantheon, can be seen standing proudly just a short walk away
(see photo).
The market is held every Tuesday and Saturday, from dawn to dusk. A myriad of
small stalls sell all sorts of second-hand and new products, and other traders
simply display their store on a stretched-out blanket.
Hand-made artisan
goods, CD's, books, clothes, stamps, coins, military objects, antiques and furniture is all on display here, so the occasional bargain is still possible although
many of the stores now seem to cater exclusively to the tourists.
Where: Campo de Santa Clara, Alfama
How: Tram 28
When: 6am to 5pm, Tuesdays and Saturdays
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National Pantheon - Domed church containing tombs of several Portuguese presidents.
Saint
George's Castle - Overlooking the city from millennium-old walls.
The
Cathedral - The city's oldest building.
Miradouro das
Portas do Sol - Standing over Alfama's rooftops, domes, and church towers.
Miradouro de
Santa Luzia - Views of the river and Alfama.
São
Vicente de Fora Church - A 16th century monastery with an exceptional tiled interior.
Santo
Antonio Church - Saint Anthony's birthplace.
Graça Church
and Miradouro - A panoramic view to the castle and the city.
Casa
dos Bicos - A 16th century architectural curiosity.
The
Roman Theater - The archaological remains of a once large Roman theater.
Decorative
Arts Museum - A captivating decorative arts collection.
Fado
Museum - The story of the national music.
Military
Museum - A testament to the country's battles.
The Tile
Museum - An ancient art form in a lavish old convent.
Doca do
Jardim do Tabaco - Sleek restaurants and club on the waterfront.
