Praça
do Comércio (Commerce Square), on the Tagus River, is the beginning
of Lisbon's Baixa, or downtown district. This district
stretches north from the river and cuts a line between the
Alfama and Castel São Jorge to the east and the Bairro Alto and Elevador de Santa
Justa to the west.
The Baixa was completely redesigned and rebuilt by the Marquis de
Pombal after the disastrous earthquake of 1755, and its broad
avenues and open spaces are a reflection of his ideas about the
Enlightenment. The current grid pattern was a dramatic shift
from the maze of streets and alleyways that existed before the
earthquake.
The Baixa was one of the first examples of earthquake-resistant
construction. Architectural models were tested by having
troops march around them to simulate an earthquake.
Praça
do Comércio with the Castel in the background
Old
buildings of the Baixa district
Open squares
of the Baixa
Castel São Jorge looms above the Baixa and Alfama districts
Gateway to the
city from the Praça
do Comércio
Wide
walkways flanked by shops, restaurants, and cafes are
typical of the Baixa
View of the
Tagus River with the Monument to Christ in the background
Night shot
from above the Baixa
The Blue Area on the map is Lisbon's Baixa, which extends north from
the Praça
do Comércio on the Tagus River.
VATICAN
CITY
Wander through the tiny papal enclave in the heart of Rome which
today comprises the world's smallest country.
ValLetta
Valetta is the capital of Malta and home to much
of its long history.
bARCELONA
Barcelona is the
ideal destination for tourists looking for a bit of sun,
history, seafood, architecture, and an excellent nightlife.
Read our vacation and travel tips on what to see and do in
about this exuberant, vibrant city!
Moving to Germany?
Look at out our tips!
Moving
to Germany
Whether you are a member of the US Air
Force, Army, or Navy, check out our guide to moving to Europe.
