Upcoming

    • 12 Apr 2025
    • 10:30 - 13:00
    • Sé, Cathedral of Lisbon
    • 5
    Register

    Guided by Eduardo Gomes, we shall visit the western part of the Cerca Moura, also known as the Cerca Velha. This is a national monument consisting of the remains of a defensive structure that is believed to date back to the late Roman period (3rd-5th centuries) and was then rebuilt and reinforced in the Islamic period (8th-12th centuries). Most of the structure that remains is from this period of Lisbon's history, around the 10th century.

    We will meet in front of the Sé, Lisbon's Cathedral (see here for Google Map), at 10.30 on Saturday, 12 April and, after a brief introduction by Eduardo, will visit the location of the Porta Férrea, the main entrance to the Almedina of Islamic Lisbon, or Al-Ušbuna. We will then visit the Porta da Alfofa and the existing defensive tower before proceeding to Largo do Chão da Feira, where Eduardo will explain the purpose of the inner wall and the division between the Almedina and the fortified Alcáçova or Kasbah, now the Castelo de São Jorge. 

    At the castle we will visit the Esplanade and see the views over Lisbon; the English Chapel; and the couraça tower, and learn about the historical role of the towers and the importance of the barbican, the fortified gate. We will also visit Traitor's Gate and Martim Moniz Gate; the noble houses at the archaeological site; and the museum and its permanent exhibition. 

    The price does not include admission to the castle as there is a range of admission prices, depending on age and residence. Admission for Lisbon residents is free of charge on presentation of evidence of residence. Where possible, we ask participants to buy their admission ticket online in advance.

    Please note that considerable walking uphill will be required, including the nearly 200 steps of the Escadinhas de São Crispim.

    The price is €20 per person. Members can invite one guest for €25. We regret that the event is not open to non-members who are not invited by a member. 

    A tour of the eastern and southern walls is scheduled for Saturday 10 May. You will receive a separate announcement for that tour.


    • 23 Apr 2025
    • 11:00 - 15:00
    • Lisbon Sports Club, Casal da Carregueira, Belas

    The Royal British Club is organizing a St. George’s Day celebration on Wednesday 23rd April at the Lisbon Sports Club, Casal da Carregueira, Belas 2605-313. Members of the British Historical Society of Portugal are invited to attend at a cost of €45 per person.

    If you are a member of the RBC or RBL you should book as instructed in the e-mail you will have received from these organizations.

    If you are not a member of the RBC or RBL  you should book through the RBC by emailing Matthew Esteves, the RBC events manager at rbceventsmanagement@gmail.com

    Please note that the BHSP will not be taking bookings. More information, including the menu, follows below.

    With best wishes,

    Edward Godfrey

    Chair – British Historical Society of Portugal


    Draft Agenda for the St George’s Day Celebration

    Wednesday April 23rd, 2025

    Lisbon Sports Club – Belas

    11.15 Meet outside the clubhouse no later than 11.15am

    (A brief welcome and explanation of events will take place)

    11.20 Croquet “Have-A-Go” session

    Tour and Talk about the Lisbon Sports Club’s history in the clubrooms

    (1 or 2 x 20-30 min sessions)

    12:30 Welcome drinks on the balcony

    13:00 Welcome and Introduction by the Chair, The Royal British Club

    Grace 

    13:15 Buffet Lunch – Main course

    14.15 Reading – This is England: from Richard II (William Shakespeare)

    by Valerie Braddell

    14.25 Buffet Lunch – Desserts (Includes scones kindly made by Barbara Flynn )

    c. 15.00 Talk by HM Ambassador to Portugal and Cabo Verde or the Consul.

    The Loyal Toast 

    - HM The King

    - His Excellency the President of the Republic of Portugal

    Coffee/Tea

    c. 15.30 Thanks and Closing Remarks, Chair RBC

    Also planned is to have a display board set up which provides a bit of history about St George including some fun facts including things many people will now know about St George.

    Menu



Future Plans...

Over the next few months we have some interesting events in the planning stage. Part 2 of our walking tour of the old walls of Lisbon will be held on Saturday 10 May. Our trip to the Viseu area in May is almost sold out. Please contact us urgently if you would like to join the trip. Our Annual General Meeting will be on 28 June and Mrs Isabel Lowndes Marques has kindly agreed to host us at her residence in Belém. 

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