Point of interest
Alfama
in Lisboa, Portugal
The oldest, most authentic quarter: narrow lanes, hanging laundry and Fado houses – made for getting lost.
Where it is
Lisbon's oldest quarter, on the eastern slope between Castelo de São Jorge and the bank of the Tagus.
Address: Alfama, 1100-095 Lisbon
What it is
A maze of narrow lanes, stairways and tiny squares strung with washing lines and filled with the sound of fado drifting from the taverns. It is best explored without a map, taking in viewpoints such as Santa Luzia and the Sé cathedral along the way. The city's most authentic and atmospheric neighbourhood.
History
Alfama dates back to the 8th century, when the Moorish rulers laid out the original quarter; its name comes from the Arabic al-hamma ("hot springs"). Unlike much of the city, Alfama largely survived the great earthquake of 1755, preserving its medieval street pattern. Long a quarter of fishermen and dock workers, it is regarded as the birthplace of fado.