Slow start this morning. After an 11 A.M. brunch we toured the city. First we went to the ancient Se Cathedral. The insides reminded me of my childhood church, Our Lady of Sorrows in Hartford, CT. We stayed a while to listen to the choir.
From there we headed towards the shoreline and watched sailboats and other tourists. For the first time in weeks, I am warm, even seeking the shady side of the streets as we head towards the Church of Our 
Lady of Martyrs to get our credential stamped. On the way we pass many “Largos” or squares. Lisboa has seven hills and before long, we realized that after a month of biking, we need to develop different leg muscles, especially in the calves.
We found the Igreja dos Martires wit
hout difficulty. I asked a sexton where to get the carimbo, the pilgrim’s stamp; he lead me to an unmarked door on the left side of the church as you face the altar. Inside and with difficulty, I explained what we needed and our credentials now bear the parish stamp. We have started our Camino Portuguese, though we still feel like tourist.
After treating ourselves to Ben & Jerry (of course, mine was the chocolate fudge brownie), Dennis took a nap. As I typed this blog and used Google translate to learn Portuguese, I can hear traditional music coming from the cathedral square, making me feel serene and happy to be in Lisboa.
Sounds like an awesome day!
yea, a hiker once again. this is on my radar so very interested in how it goes. i hear it is not as developed as the Spain portion. Buen Camino
Sue, The Camino Portuguese may not be as developed, but that is one of its appeal. It will also provide us with an opportunity to interact with the local people. I’ve read stories about how helpful the Portuguese are. I’ve also noticed, at least in Lisboa, that many speak English.
Hey guys , one more day and I’ll be crossing the border into Spain. Portugal was great, Portuguese is about as easy to learn as Russian. I found that more than expected speak English
yes lisbon is a wonderful city. and even though it rained all 3 days i was there i really enjoyed the city and the people.i hope your portuguese camino goes smoothly.
Learning the city, the customs, and the language. I can now count to 10. Ha!
Beautiful city- we are having beautiful weather east of LePuy also. Rain over, I think, stunning countryside.
Glad the rain and cold are over Good weather makes the Camino more enjoyable.