HK Independent Traveller Blog

It is said that Setubal 's history can be dated back to the Roman time and even the town was founded by a relative of Noah.  Its wealth is mainly derived from the sea and harbour.  The fishing salting industry started in 1st century AD and the town's harbour is where King Alfonso V set sail in 1458 to conquer Alcacer Ceguera in Morocco.  Today, the highlights of Setubal are the beach at Troia , the Fort of Sao Filipe and the gorgeous panoramic views. We took an express bus from Praca de Espanha (blue metro line).  It passes by  Águas Livres Aqueduct which was built between 1731 and 1747 due to a severe lack of drinking water in Lisbon. The main course covers 18km. The whole network of canals extends through nearly 58km. The bus route goes further and will pass the  Ponte 25 de Abril Bridge .  One can have a fantastic view of the Cristo Rei at the return trip. We first headed to the Monastery of Jesus , a Manueline (Portugal versio...

An Austrian friend is a specialist of castles in Europe.  He likes to travel with cruise, going to different countries.  He had only one day for Lisbon in one of his cruise trips.  It is the first time that he landed his feet at Lisbon.  He did not choose any other key sightseeing points but went straight to the Palace of Queluz and was amazed with its beauty.  My trip partner took his recommendation.  It's very worthwhile.  The palace is beautiful inside and so as the exterior including the garden.  Restoration and enhancement efforts made the Palace of Queluz one of the most beautiful palaces in Portugal . The Palace was conceived as a summer retreat for Dom Pedro of Braganza who later became husband and then king consort to his own niece Queen Maria I . The construction of the palace began in 1747. After the destruction of Ajuda Palace in 1794 (by fire), Queluz Palace became the official residence of the royal family until they f...