The Rich History of Lisbon: From Phoenician Settlements to Roman Provinces

Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, is a city with a deep and fascinating history that dates back to around 3220 years ago. This vibrant metropolis, situated on the Tagus River, has a rich tapestry of cultural and historical influences that have shaped its landscape and contributed to its unique character. From the earliest Phoenician settlements to the Roman province of Olisipo, Lisbon has a storied past that continues to captivate historians and enthusiasts.

Phoenician Settlements: Safe Haven and Trading Post

Archaeological evidence suggests that Phoenicians established a trading settlement in the area by around 1200 BCE. They chose this location due to its natural harbor and strategic position along their route to Cornwall and Britain, where they sought tin from the tin mines. The Phoenicians called the place Alis Ubbo, which translates to "safe port," and the river Thagus, which is the Portuguese name for the Tagus. The name of the river derives from the fact that it was known for its plentiful fish, and earlier local finds have indicated that alluvial gold was also present nearby.

From Odysseus to Carthage and Rome

While the Phoenicians established their presence, the city saw further development when Greek travelers visited. However, they were eventually driven away by the rising power of Carthage. It wasn't until the Romans arrived that the city became firmly established. The Romans, who had a significant impact on the region, invaded and established a province known as Olisipo. This was a period of conflict and war, during which the fierce Iberian-Celtic horsemen, known as the Lusitanians, opposed Roman rule. Despite this, the city continued to grow, and its inhabitants received Roman citizenship and the usual amenities of a Roman provincial city, including aqueducts, baths, a theater, forum, and a racetrack.

Archaeological Evidence and Roman Influences

More recent archaeological discoveries have shed light on the city's historical layers. In 2018, during renovations in a garage, a significant find was made: a Roman mosaic floor from a patrician house, over an older and forgotten Roman cemetery with a well-preserved skeleton. Beneath this, the original quarried stone foundations of a long-buried Phoenician wharf were discovered. This site, now classified as a National Monument, provides evidence of a continuous human occupation spanning 2500 years.

The importance of these findings is further highlighted by the presence of reliable, datable pottery, which provided a timeline for the city's development. These discoveries have not only enhanced our understanding of the city's past but also continue to attract archaeologists and visitors alike.

Myth and History: Ulysses and the Snakes

Legend adds a touch of mystery and magic to Lisbon's background. According to the myth, the great Greek hero Odysseus attempted to found a city at this very spot. However, his plans were thwarted by a plague of snakes, which attacked his men. Filled with determination and bravado, Odysseus approached the Queen of the Snakes, and the myth goes on to tell of how he successfully convinced her to stop the attacks. The snakes then sang in encouragement, and the builders were able to continue their work. Unfortunately, the story is tragically told. As Odysseus and his men prepared to set sail for home, the Queen of the Snakes perished in her attempt to reach them, her body eventually shaping the hills that are a distinctive feature of Lisbon's landscape.

Conclusion

The city of Lisbon is a testament to the rich and diverse history of the region. From the Phoenicians to the Carthaginians to the Romans, each civilization left its mark, shaping the landscape and culture of this dynamic city. Today, Lisbon stands as a vibrant and diverse urban center, with a deep respect for its historical roots. Its stories, from archaeological discoveries to legendary tales, continue to inform and inspire those who call it home and those who visit from afar.