05/08/2008

#218 - Rua Augusta II






"Rua Augusta is the main street of Lisbon's central shopping district. A pedestrian street, the views up and down the hills of the city, and through to the Praca Commercio, are incredible. All manner of streetlife and activity abound.

Why It Works

Rua Augusta, like all successful streets, performs two key functions: it takes you somewhere, and you enjoy simply being on it. The street is a huge sidewalk, with cafes and shops along it, as well as temporary vendors and information kiosks down the middle and at intersections.

The street itself is beautiful, made up of Lisbon's famous black and white pavers, and designed such that each intersection offered a view of the adjoining hillside neighborhoods. In addition, either end of Rua Augusta is capped by a focal point, the Praça do Comércio on one end, and the Rossio on the other. Not only do these points draw the walker along, they also are important destinations in the city itself.

While Rua Augusta is a bit touristy, and the cafes, while famous are somewhat tired, it has an amazing life its own, and features so many great innovations in maintenance and practice that it deserves to be featured. See photos for more details." [*]

7 comments:

Ken Mac said...

nice architecture shot and clear blue sky....

Jill said...

I love the black and white pavers. Very classy. Understandably, it is touristy. I would love to 'tour' this street. Is there a similar area or street where the locals hang out, that tourists haven't discovered yet?

George Townboy said...

This is beautiful. I'm sure the locals love it as well. Correct me if I'm wrong.

Love this series you are doing right now! Well, love it all! lol

sonia a. mascaro said...

Rua Augusta looks a nice place! LOVE this architecture! I would love to be there....maybe some day...

Dubai Photo Story said...

muito bonito

Dubai Photo Story said...

eu gosto de suas fotos

Small City Scenes said...

Quite beautiful. A wonderful area to wander. MB