Visit to Panteão Nacional and Museu de Arte Popular

 Since Portuguese nationals now have free access to Monuments and Museums we decided to visit the Panteão Nacional and the Museu de Arte Popular. 

The Panteão Nacional (National Pantheon) in Lisbon,  is a grand monument that serves as the final resting place for some of the country’s most important historical figures. It is located in the Igreja de Santa Engrácia, a 17th-century church with a striking white dome that dominates the skyline of the Alfama district.

History and Architecture

• The original church was commissioned in 1681, but due to various delays, the construction took over 280 years, only being completed in 1966.
• It features a Baroque style with a unique Greek-cross floor plan and an elaborate interior with marble patterns.
• The massive dome, added in the 20th century, provides breathtaking panoramic views of Lisbon.

Who is Buried There?

The Pantheon honors Portuguese presidents, writers, poets, and fado singers. Notable figures include:

• Amália Rodrigues (Fado singer)
• Humberto Delgado (Political leader)
• João de Deus (Poet)
• Sophia de Mello Breyner (Poet)
• Eusébio (Footballer)

There are also cenotaphs (symbolic tombs) for national heroes like Vasco da Gama and Infante Dom Henrique (Henry the Navigator).

It is open to visitors, and offers a rich cultural experience with exhibitions and a spectacular view from the terrace.

It is also located near the Feira da Ladra (Lisbon’s famous flea market), making it a great stop on a historical tour of the city.

From here we went for a drink and then to the Museu de Arte Popular. 

This museum, is located near the Belém district, and was established in 1948 to showcase Portuguese folk art and traditional craftsmanship. It features exhibits on textiles, ceramics, and woodwork, reflecting regional artistic traditions.

Sunday in Cascais with Chané

 We had our cousin Chané over in Portugal on a work assignment so obviously the time was very short. We decided to take her for lunch at this great restaurant called Cacau Rooftop. The views were amazing and the foid delicious!

Prawn curry

Arroz de marisco

Bacalhau com batatas e grelos

Polvo com batatas

The views from the rooftop

From here we went for a stop for drinks at Senhora da Guia

Then from here we went to 

**Boca do Inferno** (Portuguese for "Mouth of Hell") is a dramatic seaside cliff formation near Cascais. It’s famous for its rugged beauty, powerful waves, and the natural arch carved into the rock by the force of the Atlantic Ocean.  

The Key Highlights:

- **Spectacular Views:** The crashing waves against the cliffs create an impressive and sometimes eerie sight, especially during stormy weather.  

- **Natural Arch & Cave:** The site was once a sea cave, but over time, the roof collapsed, forming the current open chasm.  

- **Sunsets & Photography:** A popular spot to watch the sunset and capture breathtaking coastal views.  

- **Legends & Mystique:** Some local legends associate Boca do Inferno with supernatural events and even old tales of disappearing people.  

- **Accessibility:** Just a short walk or drive from Cascais, with a viewing platform and nearby cafés.  

It’s a must-visit if you're in Cascais, offering both natural beauty and a bit of dramatic history. Have you been there before, or are you planning a trip?

And lastely because it was getting late we took a drive to

Cabo da Roca which is the westernmost point of mainland Europe, located in Portugal along the Atlantic coast. It lies within the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, about 40 km (25 miles) west of Lisbon. The cape is known for its dramatic cliffs, which rise about 140 meters (460 feet) above the ocean, offering stunning panoramic views.  

Historically, Cabo da Roca was considered the edge of the known world in the Age of Exploration. Today, it’s a popular tourist spot, featuring a lighthouse, a monument marking its geographical significance, and a small shop where visitors can get a certificate to commemorate their visit. The rugged landscape and strong ocean winds give it a wild, untamed beauty, making it a favorite for photographers and nature lovers.

We all had a lovely time and hope to see Chané and her hubby soon.