Alfama - Tram and Cathedral

The quintessential view of Lisbon's Alfama district - the number 28 tram and the cathedral (Sé de Lisboa).

This is the oldest quarter of Lisbon and is awash with historic sites. The Alfama still retains a certain degree of authenticity and a trip down any of the maze of side streets will give a glimpse into a Lisbon that has changed little over the centuries.

The cathedral is the oldest church in the Lisbon area, dating back to shortly after the city was taken back from the Moors in 1147. It has been much modified over the years but still remains austere compared to its fantastically ornate contemporaries such as the Jeronimos Monastery in Belem.

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Alfama travel guide »

Occupying the tallest of Lisbon's hills, the district of Alfama brims with the feel of times gone by and is the truly emblematic part of the city. Largely spared in the earthquake of 1755, it is still a maze of narrow streets and steep steps, dimly lit taverns, flower-laden iron balconies and diminutive squares. Almost certainly the best way to see the wonders of this district, besides walking of…