The unique sound of Fado is part of Lisbon's DNA, so embedded in society that it is included on UNESCO's list of World Intangible Cultural Heritage. Born in the streets, houses and on the riverside of Lisbon, these poetic stories of love and fate are brought to life by the combination of guitar and emotional vocals. Here the team at Visit Lisbon pick out the neighbourhoods and attractions that can help visitors find their inner fadista and truly appreciate one of the city's authentic gems.
Neighbourhoods
Alfama is considered to be the neighbourhood where the Fado genre evolved - in the taverns and homes of this ancient district. It is the oldest and most traditional of Lisbon's neighbourhoods, typified by cobbled streets and alleys and gruelling inclines that lead up to some of the best views of the city. The trip is well worth it and once at the top visitors are recommended to soothe their souls with the melodic chords of the Portuguese guitar at the countless restaurants and Fado houses where they can recharge their batteries and let the city cast its spell.
Mouraria is another traditional and authentic neighbourhood which is widely considered to be the birthplace of Fado. It is the place where Maria Severa, a legendary figure in the world of Fado, lived and died. Mouraria is also where the Moors were allowed to live after the Christian reconquest of Lisbon in 1147.
Bairro Alto is a hub for Fado performances today. Some of the most experienced locals agree that Lisbon's nightlife begins in Bairro Alto, which is home to lots of bars, restaurants and Fado houses offering nightly shows and performances. The neighbourhood's streets fill with people of all ages who come to catch up, have a drink and watch passers-by. There are a host of nightlife venues to suit every taste, but nothing gives such an authentic Lisbon experience as a visit to a Fado house. During the day, Bairro Alto is home to a diverse range of alternative shops, from record and art shops to hairdressers.
Fado Museums and Cultural Centres
Located in Alfama, the Fado Museum is a must-see on any visit to Lisbon and the best place to discover everything about fado and the Portuguese guitar. Here, visitors can learn about the history and evolution of Lisbon's native song and take part in a one-hour group workshop which concludes with participants singing their own fados. The museum houses a permanent exhibition and holds contemporary shows, alongside a document centre and an auditorium where visitors can attend regular events. The museum also examines the artistic and bibliographical careers of many Fado artists and uses technology to take a more in-depth look at Fado's history via interactive information points and with audio guides which enable visitors to listen to dozens of Fado songs from over the decades.
The Casa-Museu Amália Rodrigues is the former home of the “Queen of Fado” and is now a museum showcasing her life and career. This yellow house in Rua de São Bento is where the greatest fado icon lived for almost half a century and where visitors can relive the atmosphere that surrounded the world famous “Voice of Portugal”, giving them a better idea of who she was and what motivated this independent, determined and unique woman. Amália Rodrigues was considered one of the greatest singers of the 20th century and had some of the best contemporary Portuguese poets writing for her.
Ah- Amália is another not-to-be-missed unique experience that enables visitors to learn more about the iconic Queen of Fado, Amália Rodrigues, through the latest generation virtual reality, holograms and interactive installations. Guests can Experience Amália in a unique way they've never seen, heard, or felt before – through a sensitive, dynamic, and unforgettable journey powered by cutting-edge technology. This state-of-the-art immersive experience will linger in the visitor's mind forever, transcending the boundaries of time and space, where each viewer becomes an active participant in this extraordinary tribute to Amália. Ah Amália is located just a 7-minute walk from Braço de Prata railway station.
Street Art
Fado Vadio is an established must-see on the urban art itinerary and truly captivates all those who see it. The mural is a tribute to fado and can be found in the neighbourhood of Mouraria at the escadinhas de São Cristóvão. This inspired and original tribute to fado, portrays the symbols and figures from the history of fado over various walls. Fernando Maurício and Maria Severa, lyrics and bread and water on the table are just a few of the elements decorating this unique corner of Lisbon.
The neighbourhood of Alfama also has streets adorned with Fado-themed tiles and murals, often depicting scenes from famous Fado songs or portraits of iconic singers.
Haunting and poetic. Fado is considered as one of the purest expressions of Lisbons' soul, with its origins believed to be in the sorrow felt by the sailors and their families who were separated by Portugal's explorations around the world in the 19th century. Experiencing a fado performance is a must for all visitors to Lisbon.
For more information, ideas, and inspiration on visiting Lisbon, go to www.visitlisboa.com.
Comments