LISBON

With its heart and soul in the Mediterranean and a history linked to the Atlantic, Lisbon is one of Europe’s most intriguing cities. But whatever its origin, Lisbon enjoys a dramatic mythical setting on seven hills that stretch along the banks of the river Tagus. The city, from where the great explorers set off to discover new continents in the 15th century is as visionary and as cosmopolitan today; its monuments and stunning architecture is now the backdrop to vibrant creativity, culture and business.

Here you can find the best of both worlds: pleasure and work.

Lisbon is one of the oldest cities in the world, and the oldest in Western Europe, predating other modern European capitals such as London, Paris and Rome by centuries. Julius Caesar made it a municipium called Felicitas Julia, adding to the name Olissipo. Ruled by a series of Germanic tribes from the 5th century, it was captured by the Moors in the 8th century. In 1147, the Crusaders under Afonso Henriques reconquered the city and since then it has been a major political, economic and cultural centre of Portugal. Unlike most capital cities, Lisbon's status as the capital of Portugal has never been granted or confirmed officially – by statute or in written form. Its position as the capital has formed through constitutional convention, making its position as de facto capital a part of the Constitution of Portugal.

Lisbon enjoys a Mediterranean climate. Among all the metropolises in Europe, it has the warmest winters, with average temperatures 15 °C (59 °F) during the day and 8 °C (46 °F) at night from December to February. The typical summer season lasts about six months, from May to October, although also in November, March and April temperatures sometimes reach around 25 °C (77.0 °F).