Introduction to Lisbon

Situated along the west coast of Portugal where the Tagus River exits into the Atlantic Ocean, Lisbon is the second closest city in Europe to the United States (Reykjavik being the closest.) Lisbon is a center of economic, political and employment and legend has it that the city was first established by Odysseus of Homer's Odyssey.

The total area of Lisbon is 85 kilometers squared and with a population of around 2.6 million people, the city consists of a old section with newer sections radiating out from the central older sections. The old sections of Lisbon were constructed on seven hillside. So steep are the gradients of these hills that vehicles are not permitted to enter the older sections of the city. The downtown section was initially designed for the use of horse and carriage. The older sections (Baixa) are named as a World Heritage Site under UNESCO.

The climate of Lisbon is very favorably with definite Mediterranean characteristics. During the summer months the temperatures average at 30c while during the winter months temperatures can average between 15c and 20c. Lisbon is a Mecca for tourists who are looking for the sun or a apartment in one of the very beautiful areas along the Atlantic Coast. For people who visit Lisbon just for the sun, don't be surprised with the large choice of top quality entertainment (sport, music and drama) along with almost everything you can think of that a tourist might want or need.

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