Portugal
Historic Sites & Landmarks in Portugal
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Convento do Carmo
Lisbon, Portugal
1389
This partially ruined Carmelite convent was Lisbon's largest until it was severely damaged in the 1755 earthquake. Today open-air summer orchestral concerts are held beneath its majestic archways.
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Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima
Fatima, Portugal
1917 (apparitions); 1928-53 (basilica)
The Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima is one of most famous Marian shrines in the world. Some 4 million people visit each year, drawn by visions of the Virgin Mary reported by shepherd children in 1917.
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Braga Cathedral
Braga, Portugal
1089
This 12th-century cathedral is the most important monument in Braga and is intimately tied to the long history of Christianity in the city.
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São Vicente de Fora
Lisbon, Portugal
Now the Royal Pantheon for the Portuguese monarchy, this church was originally part of a 12th-century convent. The current building dates from 1582-1627.
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Coa Valley Rock Art
Portugal
22,000-10,000 BC
Discovered in the 1990s, this is one of the most important collections of prehistoric rock art in the world. It has been designated a World Heritage Site.
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Engracia Pantheon
Lisbon, Portugal
This church is the National Pantheon for modern Portuguese dignitaries. The interior is covered in multicolored slabs of polished marble and its dome provides panoramic views of the river and city.
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Lisbon Cathedral
Lisbon, Portugal
1150
Lisbon's cathedral was built in the 12th century on the site of a former mosque. Resembling a fortress on the outside, it has some interesting treasures on the inside.
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Estrela Basilica
Lisbon, Portugal
This 18th-century Neoclassical church features a great dome, twin bell towers decorated with an array of statues of saints and allegorical figures, and a marble interior.
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São João Evangelista
Evora, Portugal
1485
This 15th-century church overlooking a Roman temple has a number of interesting features, including 18th-century tiles and an Arabian cistern. The convent is has been transformed into a hotel.
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Templo de Diana (Roman Temple)
Evora, Portugal
1st century CE
Located in the city center, this 1st-century Roman temple with delicate Corinthian columns remains remarkably intact.