by Anne Penny

Created on: February 09, 2010

The fascinating thing about the capital cities of Europe is their sheer diversity. Through the centuries of their development, European countries have largely retained their national identities and their capital cities also reflect their essential cultural differences.

 All are ancient and steeped in fascinating history and one of the most fascinating, especially for those who love ruins, must be Athens which became the principal city of Greece in the 5th century BC. Its long history is evident in the great monuments, such as the world-famous Acropolis high above the city, and its many temples and ancient ruins. There is often a jarring sense of the modern in Athens but you can still love the feel of the old city where treasures and beauty abound. The traditional markets are a treat to visit, especially Sundays in Monastiraki when the antiques market comes alive. Just to walk around and look is a feast for the senses; be alert to the hawkers of “genuine ancient artefact at special price”.

 The capital of Italy, Rome, is also ancient and a paradise of art, history and archaeology. The Coliseum, the Trevi Fountain, the Spanish Steps, the Vatican and the Sistine chapel with its ceiling painted by Michelangelo – all are well-known. St. Peter’s Basilica houses Michelangelo’s “Pieta”, now glass protected since it was attacked and damaged in 1976. Travestere, across the river Tiber, is a quaint medieval neighbourhood of narrow streets, cafes and bars which is great to stroll around. Rome was the “cradle of western civilisation” and its ancient culture has shaped all our lives; it has to rank as one of the most interesting cities in Europe.

 Lisbon has been the capital city of Portugal since the Moors were overcome in 1149. The architecture recalls its Moorish roots and the cultural diversity of its development. Everywhere there are sights to delight the visitor, especially in the Alfama part of the city and to get there you can take a vintage tram from the city center. These picturesque trams take a route of great scenic interest through the narrow streets and up to the castle of St.George. Night life is lively, especially in the Bairro Alto where visitors can listen to Fado, a style of blues singing that is uniquely Portuguese and unforgettable. The Lisbon flea market, like those in other cities, is great for a holiday bargain and a good place to hunt for old tiles. Portugal is the land of tiles

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