Lisbon, City of the Sea: A History

Lisbon: City of the Sea is a beautifully written portrait of a much loved city, from its origins in Greek legend to the present day. Malcolm Jack vividly captures the rich and unique history of this haunting and attractive port whose prominent position on the Tagus estuary has inextricably bound its character with the sea. Beginning with its earliest inhabitants, Jack traces Lisbon's life through its imperial success in the 16th century and the devastating earthquake that humbled the city and shocked Europe in 1755 to its current position as a vibrant and successful European capital. Stressing the importance of its foreign population in its artistic and social development, he draws out its cosmopolitan nature, as well as its colorful culture and self-image. Engaging and accessible, this book will appeal to Lisbon's many visitors as well as anyone interested in European history.