Striking contemporary architecture on the riverfront
The futuristic architecture of Eastern
Lisbon is a complete contrast to the city's old quarters. Most of it was
built by innovative architects for Expo 98, the World Fair that took place
in Portugal's capital between May and September of 1998.
Lisbon's World Fair was special because it hosted a record 130 countries
and international organizations, was the 100th international exhibition
since the Great Exhibition of London in 1851, the last one of the 20th
century, and coincided with the 500th anniversary of Vasco da Gama's arrival
in India and the United Nations' "Year of the Oceans."
The theme was "The Oceans: A Heritage for the Future," and the entire
area at the eastern end of the city's waterfront was rebuilt for the event.
When it was over, the new urban district was dubbed Parque das Nações (Park
of Nations), and is now one of the largest urban redevelopment projects in
Europe.
Most people arrive by metro, which stops at the stunning Oriente
Station. From there many are drawn to the Vasco da Gama Shopping Center
or head straight to the several popular attractions in the area. The main
highlight is the state-of-the-art Oceanarium, hailed as the world's
most impressive aquarium.
Other attractions include a modern casino, water gardens, a viewing tower, a
marina, and a number of bars and restaurants with outdoor seating
overlooking one of the world's longest bridges. Two striking twin
towers designed to look like giant sailboats are apartment and office
buildings named after two of Vasco da Gama's ships, São Gabriel and São
Rafael.
To tour the area, visitors can jump on a toy train that passes by the
main attractions every twenty minutes, or ride the cable car that
runs the full length of the site, parallel to the river, while giving
commanding views along the way.
The area's top 3 sights: Oceanarium,
Vasco
da Gama Bridge, Oriente
Station
Don't forget to: Take a look at the eye-catching contemporary
artwork and colorful tile murals of the stations on the red line of the
metro that lead to Oriente Station.
Off the beaten path: Walk along the waterfront past Vasco da Gama
Tower all the way to Vasco da Gama Bridge where there are pleasant gardens
and lawns to sit and admire the magnificence of the bridge and the river.
Transportation: Take the metro.
Recommended HOTEL: Olissipo Oriente
MAP of Parque das Nações: Where to locate all of Parque das Nações's sights
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Parque das Nações ATTRACTIONS
|
Baixa -
Broad squares, 18th century architecture, patterned pavements, popular
cafes
Bairro
Alto & Chiado - Vibrant nightlife, picturesque streets, classic and
alternative culture, chic shopping, restaurants
Belem -
The Age of Discovery, grandiose monuments, museums
Alfama -
Medieval maze, spectacular views, an imposing castle, the sounds of Fado
Uptown -
Masterpieces and museum treasures, shopping malls
Parque
das Nações - The 21st century by the Tagus; futuristic architecture
