The cruise on Silversea ended Saturday morning in Lisbon and as with most cruises, guests leave the ship very early in the morning (by 9AM) so we had a full day to explore Lisbon.
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View of Lisbon from the port. |
Our hotel was on the main Avenue (Avenida Liberdad) and when we arrived, the entire promenade was filled with displays and people. How nice of them to throw us a street party!
Turns out, it was a "Mega Picnic" celebrating the products of Portugal (agriculture, farming, etc.). It seemed like everyone was there, bringing their own picnic, blankets and chairs.
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View of the avenue. |
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Potatoes |
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Broccoli |
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"Statue" |
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Cabbage/kale |
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Local celebrities hosting the festivities. |
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Beautiful sunflowers! |
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Mama and her babies |
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Ducks and geese |
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Turkeys and chickens |
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Goats with funny horns |
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Horse-drawn buggy rides. |
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Tractor and farm equipment display |
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Statue of Marques de Pombal (responsible for the rebuilding of the city after earthquake in 1700s) |
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Plum tree |
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Olive tree |
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HUGE bandshell where a famous Portugeuse singer would perform later. |
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Lisbonians enjoying the shade, a picnic and waiting for the concert. |
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Another square/plaza where we would meet our guide. |
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Throughout Lisbon, the tiles/pavers cover the sidewalks and squares.
The wavy pattern can be tricky on the eyes....especially after a glass of port, beer or ginjinha (cherry brandy). |
So, for our first day in the city, it was quite interesting. Everyone was so peaceful and enjoyed the event along the avenue - literally from one statue to another at the main square.