Lovers in Lisbon

Author’s Note If legends are to be believed, Lisbon was founded by the great God Ulysses, but it is true that the Greeks traded along the Iberian coast and the large Harbour of the River Tagus was for a long time called Olissibona, a name that is to be found on some of the earliest printed maps. Lisbon today, with its semi-circle of seven hills sheltering the narrow flat land on the slow-flowing tidal river, is extremely beautiful. The people are smiling and welcoming and the fish, fresh and delicious in the restaurants and the many lovely Churches have an atmosphere that speaks of the faith of its people that has remained unchanged over the centuries. The narrow pavements in the Old City are crowded by a colourful throng of tourists, the many hawkers of lottery tickets, the blind street singer with his guitar and the fruit pedlar with his barrow. Flowers are sold around the splashing fountains of Rossio and the smell of coffee wafts from the cafés to mingle with the sharp sultry breeze from the sea. It is all very unlike the hustle and bustle of more modern Cities and far more attractive. Outside Lisbon, Estoril with its Villas, expensive hotels, flowered terraces and elegant shops, has become the home of many European Monarchs and Royalty who have lost their Thrones. But while the last King of Portugal has gone, and with him most of the Court, a small creek still bears the name the ‘Queen’s Beach’.