History

History in Lisbon dates back to prehistoric times and while there is no definite proof as to the exact origins of the city, many believe the city was founded circa 1200 BC as an outpost by the Phoenicians. The ancient name of Lisbon (Olisipo) may come from the Phoenician word alis ubbo which translates to "lovely little port."

From 205 BC to 409 AD the city was ruled by the Romans and was initiated as a city by Julius Caesar who called it Felicitas Julia. The Romans lost the city to the Alani, who in turn lost it to the Suebi who in turn lost it to the Visigoths who ruled the city for more than 400 years.

In Moorish occupation of the city lasted for over 400 years despite attempts by the Normans to capture the city. The name Lisbon was given to the city by the Moors as the name evolved from Ulixbone to Luzbona. Many people believe that this name was translated from the Moorish for "good water."

Because of the strenght of the defences around Lisbon which were put in place by the Moors, it wasn't until 1147 that Lisbon was again captured by crusaders of general European origins and was ruled by King Afonso Henriques who was Portugals first King. Despite numours attempts by the Moors to retake the city they failed.

It wasn't until 1256 that Lisbon was declared the capital city of Portugal and later went on to become a center of exploration and culture.

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