Miradouro da Graca (Sophia de Mello Breyner Andresen)

The Miradouro da Graça attracts both locals and visitors because it is situated at the topmost point of the city and offers scenic views of the city and surrounding areas. It overlooks the river and the 25th April Bridge from its perch atop Santo André Hill and the historic districts of Mouraria, Alfama, Downtown, and the Castle. Although locals refer to it as Miradouro da Graça (meaning 'Graça's viewpoint'), the poet Miradouro Sophia de Mello Breyner Andresen gave it its formal name. A poem she wrote is still present on the walls of this viewpoint. For those who wish to relax at the café or near the walls surrounding it, the church's shadow and the pine trees give it a specific impression of spiritual shelter. In addition, the view of Lisbon from the hill next to the castle is truly breathtaking. This place holds importance because as soon as you discover it, the city disappears beneath your feet, the old neighborhoods go about their daily lives, the Tagus flows in the distance, and the sound seems to fade in this serene location. Explore the Miradouro da Graça - Get a chance to walk past a little garden with a fountain and a bronze sculpture before you get to the terrace. The classic cobblestone patterns are used to pave the steps that lead up to the viewpoint. - It features a kiosk café with drinks, seating, and scenic city vistas framed by pine trees. - 'Igreja da Graça,' one of Lisbon's oldest churches constructed in 1271, faces the vista. Its baroque building is a product of the rebuild that followed the earthquake in 1755. The inside is embellished with grisaille artwork and gilded woodwork. It also holds a statue of Christ carrying the cross through the streets yearly during the Easter procession—a custom that dates back to 1587. The adjacent convent was converted into a military barracks in the 19th century but was only recently made accessible to the general public in 2017. Its interior combines marble and several 18th-century tile panels with an exquisite cloister. - A view of the castle, which can be seen to the left and overlooks the city below, has long been a favorite of artists. You may occasionally see them sketching or painting the surrounding views at this spot.