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Free booking and cancellationFree payment tour, no set price, booking and cancellation are free
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At Take Free Tours, we believe in the power of exploration and the joy of discovery. Our mission is to make the world accessible to everyone, offering free, immersive walking tours that unveil the hidden gems and rich histories of cities around the globe. Led by passionate, knowledgeable guides, each tour is a unique journey, blending storytelling with culture and adventure. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or exploring a new city for the first time, Take Free Tours invites you to see the world through new eyes, connect with fellow explorers, and create unforgettable memories without the barriers of cost. Join us and embark on a journey of wonder!
This tour will take you through the historic neighborhoods of Mouraria and Alfama , where Fado, that profound expression of Portuguese culture, was born and continues to resonate in every corner. For approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes, our guide will tell you about the history of Fado, share with you the local traditions and culture, and show you the details and secrets of these ancient neighborhoods that still preserve their essence.
Our tour begins in Martim Moniz , in the heart of the multicultural Mouraria , one of the oldest and most emblematic neighborhoods in the city. From there, we will enter narrow streets, alleys and alleys that take us to the most iconic and often hidden places in Lisbon. During this walk of approximately two hours, you will learn about the history, legends and secrets of Fado as we walk through the places where it was born.
Some of the highlights of our tour include:
This tour is designed for all lovers of history, culture and music, and offers an intimate view of the most authentic Lisbon. It is an ideal tour for those who are looking for more than just a tourist tour and want to connect with the very essence of the city.
The guide will be next to the chapel with the Take Lisboa logo.
This chapel, originally outside Lisbon's city walls, has a significant historical and emotional tie to the city's residents. Initially dedicated to St. Sebastian in 1505 due to the plague, it was later dedicated to Our Lady of Good Health in 1662 to commemorate the city's deliverance from the disease. Its simple façade makes it a fascinating start to understanding the roots of Fado and the evolution of its name within the context of of Lisbon's history and its battles with destiny.
While the tour may vary, learning about the Portuguese guitar—a key instrument in Fado music—provides insight into the traditional melodies and poetic expressions that define this genre. The intricate relationship between the music and its lyrics opens a window to the soul of Portugal.
Named after Maria Severa, the first iconic Fado singer, this spot is pivotal in understanding how Fado emerged from the humble origins of Lisbon's quarters to become a national symbol of Portuguese identity. Her story is a testament to the depth and passion inherent in Fado music.
Situated in Lisbon's historically impoverished neighborhoods, this statue commemorates Fado's journey to prominence. Fernando Maurício, known as the "King of Fado" in Lisbon's Mouraria district, symbolizes Fado's ascent from local taverns to the national stage, including its complex ties with the Salazar regime and the cultural icon Amália Rodrigues.
Here, the narrative delves deeper into Fado's history, including its role during the Salazar regime, its revival post the April 25th revolution, and its reinterpretation by contemporary artists like Ana Moura and Camané. This segment of the tour offers a reflection on Fado's enduring legacy and its ability to adapt and resonate across generations.
Exploring the lyrics and origins of Fado near this church allows for a profound understanding of its connection to Portuguese culture and identity. Fado is more than music; it is an expression of life's complexities, a sentiment that is "felt, not understood."
Free tours do not have a set price, instead, each person gives the guru at the end of the tour the amount that he or she considers appropriate (these usually range from €10 to $50 depending on satisfaction with the tour).