welcome to lisbon

Why Lisbon?

Lisbon, the city of seven hills

Lisbon's name may have been derived from Proto-Celtic or Celtic Olisippo, Lissoppo, or a similar name which other visiting peoples like the ancient Phoenicians, Greeks and Romans adapted accordingly, such as the pre-Roman appellation for the Tagus River, Lisso or Lucio. Classical authors writing in Latin and Greek, including Strabo, Solinus, and Martianus Capella,referred to popular legends that the city of Lisbon was founded by the mythical hero Ulysses (Odysseus). Lisbon's name was written Ulyssippo in Latin by the geographer Pomponius Mela, a native of Hispania. It was later referred to as "Olisippo" by Pliny the Elder and by the Greeks as Olissipo (Ὀλισσιπών) or Olissipona (Ὀλισσιπόνα).

Another claim repeated in literature is that the name of Lisbon could be traced back to Phoenician times, referring to a supposed Phoenician term Alis-Ubbo, meaning "safe harbour" or "pleasant haven". Although modern archaeological excavations show a Phoenician presence at this location since 1200 BC, this folk etymology "is never attested in ancient classical literature".

Today, Lisbon is leading the way on sustainability, having been named European Green Capital 2020 for its efforts, including commitment to sustainable land use, as well as measures to restrict car use and prioritise public transport, walking and cycling. The city has 124 miles of cycle networks, providing visitors with bike-friendly routes between the city’s green spaces so you can fit in as much as possible and worry a little less about your environmental impact.