8 “secret” places that will surprise you in Lisbon

The best thing about living in a city like Lisbon is the certainty that there's always a place you haven't yet had the opportunity to visit or see. We disguised ourselves as tourists and, as always, went looking for the most “secret” places in the city.

The most “secret” places in Lisbon:

1 – Mural das Portas do Sol

Most people go up to Largo das Portas do Sol to enjoy the views over the red-tiled roofs of the city, but few know that there is a mural nearby that tells the story of Lisbon… or at least the most important parts.

2 – Casa do Alentejo

Those who pass by the coliseum have no idea that the façade hides one of the most interesting buildings in Lisbon, the Casa do Alentejo.

This house stands on the former site of the 17th-century Alverca Palace. Since 1981 it has been officially dedicated to all Alentejans – both those born there and those with a love of the region. Previously, it had been leased by the Grémio Alentejano since 1932.

3 – Lakes and Fountains of the Gardens of the Palácio de Queluz

A reference of Baroque-Rococo in Portugal, the gardens of the Palácio Nacional de Queluz are replete with statues, fountains and lakes.

Although the best way to discover this place would be to go, in this article we're going to give you a little introduction to what you'll find there.

4 – The oldest house in Lisbon

The photo below shows the oldest house in Lisbon, which is 500 years old. It is also one of the “survivors” of the earthquake that, on November 1, 1755, devastated much of the city.

5 – Palácio de Monserrate

Built in 1856 as a summer residence for Francis Cook, the Monserrate Palace is one of the most incredible Romantic creations.

But that's just the beginning, the Monserrate Palace has so much more to offer.

6 – Aqueduto das Águas Livres

The Águas Livres Aqueduct was built between 1731 and 1799, by royal decree, and has been classified as a National Monument since 1910.

We bet you didn't know about this extraordinary place either, did you?

7 – Erotic Museum of Lisbon

It should be noted from the outset that the MEL – Erotic Museum of Lisbon is not a museum in the true sense of the word.

It's not a place where you'll find erotic displays behind shop windows.

Above all, it is a place that invites its visitors to “awaken” their senses through various experiences – from the moment you enter the small hall at the entrance, to daring to go beyond the red curtain and embark on an exciting journey into the world of desire, motivation or impulse.

8 – Casa-Museu Amália Rodrigues

We have to admit that it wasn't until we visited the place where she lived for more than 40 years that we understood better what Amália Rodrigues really represents to her huge legion of fans, both nationally and internationally.

To really know Amália Rodrigues better, you need to know how she lived. And after this visit to her House-Museum, you'll know everything there is to know.

These "secret" spots are just some of the amazing places in Lisbon that we recommend you visit… but there are so many more!

Read the original article in Portuguese at Lisboa Secreta.