Ponte 25 de Abril

The 25th of April Bridge is one of the most iconic landmarks in Lisbon. Its huge red arches span the River Tagus, reminding visitors of the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco.

Why is so important the 25th of April? It was the date of the Portuguese Carnation Revolution of 1974, a military coup in Lisbon which overthrew the regime of the Estado Novo. The movement would eventually lead to the fall of the Estado Novo and Portugal withdrawing from East Timor and the African colonies. The bridge was originally named after the dictator Salazar, but its name was changed after the April 25th revolution.

Underneath the bridge is a lovely dock and marina area that is packed with great bars and restaurants, a great place to stop and admire the view with a cold beer.