On the hill overlooking the center of Lisbon are the walled remains of a Moorish castle; Castle St. Jorge. Archeological excavations have revealed the existence of human habitation in the valley of the Tagus River as far back as the sixth century B.C. The first fortifications on the hill date to the second century B.C. During the tenth century A.D., these fortifications were rebuilt by the Moors. By 1147, Alfonso Henriques had freed Lisbon from the Moorish rule. One hundred and eight years later (1255), Lisbon became the capital of Portugal and the castle became the fortified residence of Alfonso III ( who was the first to use the title "king of Portugal"). Between 1373 and 1375 the compound was enclosed by a 17,700 foot long wall, which included 77 towers. By the end of the 14th century, the castle was dedicated to St. George. When Portugal became part of the Spanish empire in 1580, the castle became an important military post. The Portugese Restoration War (1640 to 1668) brought independence back to Portugal. An earthquake in 1755 severely damaged the castle and contributed to its eventual decay. While the trip to castle is quite a climb up the hill (although there is a trolley that goes up to near the entrance), there are several important museums and churches along the way (which are well worth visiting in their own right). One cautionary note; locals informed us that because of the tourist nature of everything on the hill, pickpockets are prevalent. So beware of your surroundings and safeguard your valuables.
As you climb the hill, the castle becomes more and more visible. The main gate into the castle area. One of the interior courtyards. 16th century sketch of the castle. One of the 77 towers located along the walls... ...all of which are connected by well maintained walkways. The views of the city from here are spectacular! Thst's not the guard post you were assigned!
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Completed in 1875, the Rua Augusta Arch, on the edge of the Plaza of Commerce, symbolizes Lisbon's rebirth following the devastation of the 1775 earthquake. Six columns, decorated with the statues of historic figures (including Viriatus - who resisted the Roman conquest of Portugal - and Vasco da Gama - the famed navigator/explorer) support the arch. Situated on top of the structure is a statue of "Glory" rewarding "Valor and Genius." On the face of the arch looking towards the Rua Augusta itself is a magnificent clock (added to the arch in 1941), whose inner workings can be viewed in a stone floored room just below the top level.. Visitors to the top ( following a brief elevator ride from street level) can get a breath-taking view of the city and its harbor. During summer months, the arch is used as a screen for nightly videos and light shows depicting the history of Lisbon. A little bit of trivia; part of the movie "Gulliver's Travels" - when the Lilliputians wheeled the captured Ted Danson (as Gulliver) into their city - was shot under the arch. It was in the Plaza of Commerce, just in front of the arch, that we enjoyed a wonderful Summer's night concert featuring the Gypsy Kings ( see our Facebook posting of July 2, 2017). Looking across the Plaza of Commerce towards the Rua Augusta Arch. Walking under the arch, look up at the marvelous workmanship that went into its construction. On the far side of the arch, moving towards the Ray Augusta itself, is the imposing clock face ( built in 1941). In a room just below the top of the arch, you can view the inner workings of the clock. Following a brief elevator ride to the top of the arch, you can get a wonderful view of the plaza below and Lisbon's harbor. Looking the other way, this is a wonderful view of the Rua Augusta and part of Lisbon.
Opposite the Basilica Estrela is one of the largest gardens in Lisbon; the Jardim de Estrela. In the 1840's, the governor of Lisbon, Antonio Bernardo da Costa Cabral, realized that Lisbon was in need of a public park within the densely populated city. It was originally known as "Jardim Guerra Jungueiro" in honor of the local poet/politician who played an instrumental role in the downfall of the Portugese monarchy. While construction of the gardens began in 1842, funding for the landscaping and sculpture work dried up during a war and financial problems over the succeeding few years - resulting in a delayed opening until 1852. For the first 70 years of its existence, the gardens played host to a caged lion. Now, ducks are the only park animals. Originally, the gardens were embellished with a gazebo and a Chinese pavilion (both of which no longer exist), although the park's centerpiece is still a wrought iron bandstand built in 1884. Among the many statues throughout the gardens, the most famous is the "Keeper of the Ducks" from a popular fairy tale. This garden was only a five minute walk from our apartment and made for a relaxing respite from city life. The main entrance to the 12 acre park... ...is opposite the Basilica Estrela. It presents a relaxing respite from the very densely populated city... ...and has some rather unique looking, yet beautiful, trees. Centered in the middle of the gardens is this glorious wrought iron bandstand constructed in 1884. Perhaps the most visited portion of the park is this duck pond... ...with its most famous statue, the "Keeper of the Ducks." For the first 70 years of its existence, the gardens most prominent inhabitant was a caged lion.
Construction of the Basilica Estrela began in 1779, by order of Queen Maria I (the first monarch of Portugal). She had been trying to have a son (and heir to the throne), so she made a promise to build a beautiful church as a thank-you if she gave birth to a healthy child. Officially known as "The Royal Basilica and Convent of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus", it is considered to be one of the most beautiful churches in Europe, and the first one in the world dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Upon her death in 1816, Queen Maria I was buried in a tomb in the right transept of the Basilica. One of the most unique features here is a permanent nativity scene ( consisting of 500 pieces) carved out of cork and Terracotta in the 18th century by noted sculptor Joaquin Marchado de Castro. While there is no admission fee to the Basilica itself, access to the roof (for a spectacular view of the city) costs three Euros. This is a beautiful church and was only a five minute walk from our apartment. At the time it was built, the Basilica Estrela sat atop a hill in the western part of Lisbon and had a commanding view of the city. This side view, I felt, really captures the elegance of the architecture. Taken in 1895, there does appear to have been much structural changes to the building itself (although the surrounding area has changed). Looking done the center aisle towards the main altar. From the just right position, you can see how the use of natural light enhances the church. Part of the 500 piece nativity scene carved from cork and terra-cotta. Tomb of Queen Maria I, first monarch of Portugal. View from the roof of the Basilica.
Lisbon, Portugal's coastal capital city, is the largest city in the country and the western most capital city on the European continent. It is also the only one on the Atlantic Ocean coastline. Around 10,000 years B.C. the region was inhabited by pre-Celtic tribes, but there did not appear to be any permanent settlements. Sometime around the fifth century, a series of Germanic tribes ruled the region, finally creating a settlement around 1256. Following the defeat of Hanibal during the Punic Wars, Lisbon fell under Roman rule ( at the time it was known as Olisipo). During the 8th century, the Moors captured and ruled the area until 1147, when it was recaptured by the Crusaders. The Muslim influence can still be seen all around the city. One of the first things we experienced upon our arrival, is how hilly the city is (and I do mean "hilly"; at times we felt like mountain goats). In addition, everyone seems to live in condominiums or apartment buildings on top of each other with neither personal yards, nor green spaces, to call their own. Lovely communal parks are located throughout the city, which do offer some semblance of outdoor life. All-in-all, though, this very cosmopolitan city looks like it will be fun to explore. The rooftops of Lisbon as seen from Castle Hill. Lisbon's National Assembly building (aka Parliament) is just across the street from our apartment. Praca do Comercio (Square of Commerce) and with its iconic Arco de Rua Augusta. In 1908, King Carlos I, was assassinated in this square as he was returning to Lisbon from the Vila Vicosa. This led to the overthrow of the Portuguese monarchy two years later. Muslim influence is still visible throughout the city as evidenced by tiled building fronts. Communal green spaces, such as this garden park by the Lisbon School of Economics and Management around the corner from our apartment, can be found throughout the city. Constructed in 1779 on the order of Queen Maria I, the Basilica Estrela was the first church in the world dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Public transportation in and around the city is quite good.
With the end of our time in Disney World, we felt it would be nice to review our 50th anniversary celebration here. First of all, it was fantastic to have Madonna and Josh; Carl, Valerie, Lucy, and Eamon; David, Jessica, Devin, and Gabriella all here to enjoy this time together. Thank you all for making sure that your schedules were clear enough to be a part of this celebration. It was very important for us to be able to share this adventure with all of you. Thank you to Kristine Powers (our "Mouse Planner") for setting up such a wonderful experience for the family. And thank you for putting up with our many questions, emails, and phone calls. We appreciate your efforts. And thank you to all of the cast members of Disney World for going out of your way to make our visit to "The Happiest Place on Earth" even more special. The flowers, basket of classic Mickey Mouse Club hats, the cake, and the plate of sweets were fantastic! So, to tie everything up with a neat bow, we'd like to share pictures of this week, some with captions, some without, but all with joy in our hearts. The whole gang (love the mouse hats!). Those hats went everywhere with us. ...and I do mean everywhere! Remind me...which one is the Disney character? There are those hats again! How did I keep my eyes open enough to get this picture? "Photo bombing" apparently is a tradition. And...another tradition continues. "Tag! You're it!" "Lucy...do you think mommy will let me have this one?" Time to say "Good-bye." And now...off on our next adventure...Lisbon, Portugal
Opened in April of 1998, Walt Disney World's Animal Kingdom is the largest zoological theme park in the world. Covering 580 acres, it is dedicated to the natural environment and animal conservation. This dedication is represented by "The Tree of Life," a 145 foot tall and 50 foot wide artificial Baob tree, which celebrates all living creatures. "Inspired by the mythical tree of the same name, the Tree of Life features 325 carvings of existing and extinct species on its trunk and surrounding roots." (Wikipedia description). With nearly eleven million visitors per year, Animal Kingdom is the fourth most visited amusement park in the United States (behind the other three Disney World parks). Construction began in 1990, after the park's planners had traveled to both Africa and Asia to study landscapes and wildlife. The park is divided into six parts; OASIS (which is the main entrance area); DISCOVERY ISLAND ( which acts as the central hub connecting the other parts of the park); AFRICA (one of the original sections of the park and which includes a ride in a safari-type vehicle through real life animal habitats. Admittedly, there exists some strong feelings about animals in captivity, and we do respect those sentiments as existing. With that being said, this zoological presentation is one of the best we've encountered, and seems to done with sensitivity.); RAFIKI'S PLANET WATCH ( a three foot wide narrow gauge wildlife train ride which focuses on conservation); ASIA ( comprising two fictional villages with the focal point being the exceptional "Expedition Everest" roller-coaster ride - not for the feint of heart); and our personal favorite, PANDORA - THE WORLD OF AVATAR (with its main attraction being "Flight of Passage", an absolutely stunning 3-D, CGI ride through the fictional world of the Avatar. This is one ride you SHOULD NOT miss!). As with all of the theme parks in Disney World, once you understand the lay-out, it is easy to find your way around. We had a lot of fun here. .As is true with all of the theme parks at Disney World, Animal Kingdom is approached through a main entrance announcing where you are... ...after which you follow paths into the park, surrounded by stunning landscapes. The artificially created "Tree of Life" is the center piece of Animal Kingdom. Its safari-type ride attempts to present an as true-to-life trip through "natural" wildlife habitats as possible in an artificial enclosure. "Now which animal was that we just saw?" If roller coaster rides give you a thrill, then "Expedition Everest" is one you should absolutely experience ( and yes, that erector-set structure to the left of the picture is the UPSIDE of the ride! "OMG! What did I get myself into this time?" By far, the most amazing section was Pandora - The World of Avatar. This 3-D, CGI presentation was the single, most amazing experience we've encountered. This picture and the following one were taken from an advertisement about "The Flight of Passage" as my camera could not adequately capture the 3-D images. And even these don't really do the experience justice. On May 1st, 1989, seven years after Epcot opened, Disney World's third theme park was unfurled. Originally known as "Disney-MGM Studios", this 135 acre park was dedicated to show business (i.e. Films, television, music, and theater). Plans for what would later become known as "Hollywood Studios" began in 1985, with an agreement between the Disney Corporation and MGM Studios to include a working production facility and a backlot. This agreement ended in 2008 and the park was renamed. Six themed areas now make up the Hollywood Studios area; Hollywood Boulevard; Echo Lake; Muppets Courtyard; Pixar Place; Animation Courtyard; and Sunset Boulevard. But more importantly, for us, this is where our eldest granddaughter, Lucy (a very talented artist in her own right) got to spend some time with one of Disney's "Imagineers", (who knows, Lucy may have a future career here?), and where our seven year old grandson, Devin, (who had just been introduced to the "Star Wars Universe") got to participate in the "Jedi Training Academy." The "Force" may yet be strong with him, so the "Evil Empire" and Darth Vader better be weary of this new Jedi! The main entrance to "Hollywood Studios"... ...where the "Crossroads of the World" meets "Hollywood Boulevard." Built to resemble Grauman's Chinese Theater in Hollywood, "The Great Movie Ride" was originally conceived to be a main attraction pavilion at Epcot. However , the then CEO, Michael Eisner, decided "...the idea was strong enough to lead an entire new theme park." Lucy and Devin defending the universe from the Evil Empire... ...while Eamon protects them from sneak attacks. Darth Vader has no chance against this new Jedi. The force is strong with Devin. "I think you're part of the Rebel Alliance. I'm going to collect a bounty on you!" Back off! These two suspected revels are our prisoners. Marching to the beat of their own drums. Negotiating with a Jawa
The second theme park to open at Florida's Disney World was originally known as Epcot Center (opened on October 1, 1982). Taking three years to build, at the time, Epcot was considered to be the largest construction project in the world. Covering 300 acres, it is more than twice the size of the Magic Kingdom. Its official designation was "...the celebration of human achievement," but was also known ("unofficially") as a "permanent world's fair." This theme park is divided into two sections; (1) "Future World," with eight Pavillions; and (2) "World Showcase," with eleven world nation exhibits. On average, around twelve million people visit Epcot annually, making it the third most visited theme park in the United States. Its geodesic sphere, "Sapceship Earth," is the park's most recognizable symbol. The name "Epcot" is an acronym for "Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow," and its mission is to constantly follow new ideas and technology. For this reason, Epcot will never be considered finished. Epcot did not exist when we were last here in 1980, so it was a thrill for us to see it now for the first time. "Spaceship Earth," the geodesic sphere that symbolizes Epcot. Inside the sphere are exhibits that depict some of mankinds great achievements over the centuries ... ...such as from the printing press... ...to radio/television and beyond. But my personal favorite parts of Epcot are the World Nations exhibits.., ...because we've actually visited some of the places they represent, during our travels.... ...as well as a few places we've yet to see. It was amazing to watch how much in character the cast members stayed during such times as being questioned by a 21st century seven year old... ...or an inquisitive grandparent.
The very first theme park to open at Florida's Disney World was "The Magic Kingdom" on October 1, 1971(at the same time that the Contemporary and Polynisian Village hotels opened). Based on Disneyland in California, and represented by the iconic Cinderella's Castle, it's twenty-three attractions were dedicated to fairy tales and various Disney characters. Actual construction had begun in 1967 over a series of tunnels that would allow cast members and VIPs to move through the park out of sight of guests. Because of a high water table, all of this was built on existing grade level, making the the park itself actually on the second story (at an elevation of 108 feet). Covering 107 acres, the Magic Kingdom is designed like a wheel, with the castle at the hub, and includes six themed lands; i.e. Main Street, USA; Adventureland; Fantasyland; Liberty Square; Frontierland; and Tomorrowland. Since its opening, the Magic Kingdom has only been closed for six hurricanes, and on September 11, 2001, because of the terrorists attacks. We had a great time watching our two youngest grandchildren marvel at their first-time experience here, while the two older grandkids played excellent tour guides. Truly, for us, "The Happiest Place on Earth." First of the theme parks created at Disney World, the Magic Kingdom is based on various Disney characters and fairy tales. Perhaps the one image that is most closely associated with the whole of Disneyworld is Cinderella's Castle... ...but for us, now, it will forever be this image. Visitors from around the world "flock" (ugh!) to Disney World. Not sure who was having more fun, the grandkids... ...or the adults? For sure, it was a memorable 50th anniversary for us... ...with Disney World helping us to celebrate. ...and for Carl and David, keeping a "special" tradition alive!
In 1959, four years after the opening of Disneyland, Walt Disney's company began looking for a suitable site for his next project; Disney World. Settling on 30,500 acres in Orlando, Florida, construction began in 1967 of what would become the flagship destination of the Disney Worldwide Corporation. Learning from some of the issues surrounding his California park, Disney used various "dummy" companies to acquire the land, in order to avoid a burst of land speculation surrounding the property. All of this was done in secrecy so that no one knew who was actually buying up the land. One of the biggest problems to be dealt with was that a number of the sites he wanted were owned by Tufts University. Disney's team negotiated a deal to buy the mineral rights from Tufts for $15,000; thus, effectively owning the property. Unfortunately, Walt died before he saw his dream completed. His brother (and his business partner), Roy, took over to finish the project as a means of honoring Walt's ambitions. Florida's governor and legislature created a bill to form a special, independent district, run by the Disney Corporation, that would eventually become Lake Buena Vista. The Magic Kingdom was the first of the themed parks to open ( on October 1st, 1971), followed by Epcot (1982), Holloywood Studios (1989), and Animal Kingdom ( 1998). Disney World is now officially known as WDW Parks & Resorts and is operated by a Board of Directors. In keeping with its show business theme, employees are known as "cast members." Numbering more than 74,000, this makes Disney World the largest single-site employer in the United States. In addition to its amusements, Disney World sponsors the WDW College program and the International College program ( along with internship and training programs) to develop its "front line" cast members. The first indication that you have arrived at "The Happiest Place on Earth." Cinderella's castle is "THE" centerpiece for Walt Disney World... ... while "Spaceship Earth" symbolizes Epcot. Liberty Square's Hall of Presidents. The Great Movie Ride was one of the original attractions at the opening of the Hollywood Studios park. Considered the largest zoological theme park in the world, the 580 acre Animal Kingdom was opened in 1998... ...and plays host to over 11 million visitors per year from all over the world.
Fifty-three years ago, I asked a beautiful young girl to dance with me during a college mixer. Three years later, we were married. Who could have guessed that a simple question, such as "Would you like to dance?" could lead to fifty years of wonderful adventures. While we celebrated our "official" anniversary traveling through the Canadian Rockies on a train, we decided to go one step further; take our three children, our three in-law children, and our four grandchildren to Disney World for a week. Most people might say that it was supposed to be the other way around (i.e. the children should take the parents). But not us! We wanted this to be special, "For us!" With the help of a terrific "Mouse Planner," Kristine Powers, we arranged for the whole family to fly into Orlando, booked rooms at the Contemporary Resort and Bay Tower hotels, planned visits to all of the theme parks, and even set up a number of celebration dinners for all of us. What a great time! The two youngest grandchildren (ages seven and four) had never been to Disney World before, so it was wonderful to watch their reactions to everything (it brought back fantastic memories of when we brought our own children here forty-something years ago). What was even more thrilling was to watch the amazing interactions between the older grandchildren and the younger ones. They were so wonderful together (thank you Lucy and Eamon). Devin, our seven year old grandchild, was awestruck by his Jedi Training Academy experience (he had just been introduced to "Star Wars" by his father). Gabriella's special treat was to meet the Disney princesses at Cinderella's Table in the Castle. Lucy, a very talented artist in her own right, had the opportunity to eat lunch (along with her mother, also an artist) with one of Disney's "Imagineers." It turned out that this "Imagineer" had worked on Disney World's newest attraction, "The Tower of Terror." And for Eamon, dinner at a Japanese restaurant, where the chefs put on quite a show right at our table, was special. While we took a ton of pictures ourselves during the course of our week's stay, there were many professional photographers throughout all of the parks who would take great photos of us. There were also "hidden" cameras at various attractions that captured reactive photos during the rides. We had purchased the "Memory Maker" package, to which these photos were downloaded. It was well worth it. Of all the wonderful experiences we've encountered during our nearly three year adventure,, this one was by far our most memorable. Thank you, thank you, thank you, to Madonna and Josh, to Carl and Valerie, to David and Jessica, as well as to Lucy and Eamon, and Devin and Gabriella, for making "The Happiest Place on Earth" even happier for us! Welcome to "The Happiest Place on Earth." We were first here 42 years ago, shortly after it opened, and our own biological children were little. What a way to celebrate our 50th anniversary! And to think, it all started with "Would you like to dance?" |
Carl and Lorraine Aveni are two retirees planning on traveling through Europe for at least one year.
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