Immerse yourself in the soulful sounds of Fado and the rich history of Portugal as you traverse through Calçada da Amália, a charming street nestled in the heart of Lisbon. Named after one of Portugal’s most beloved Fado singers, Amália Rodrigues, this enchanting pathway is steeped in culture and tradition.
The History Behind The Name
Calçada da Amália was named after the illustrious Portuguese singer, Amália Rodrigues. Known as ‘The Queen of Fado’, she played an instrumental role in popularizing this traditional music genre both nationally and internationally during her career which spanned over 50 years from 1940 to 1999. Her home on Rua de São Bento was converted into a museum (Casa Museu Amália Rodrigues) following her death in October 1999 – a testament to her enduring influence on Portuguese culture.
A Stroll Down Calçada da Amália
Tucked away from Lisbon’s bustling city center, Calçada da Amália offers visitors a serene escape filled with historic charm. As you amble down its cobblestone path lined by pastel-colored houses adorned with azulejos (traditional painted ceramic tiles), it’s impossible not to be captivated by its old-world allure.
Casa Museu Amalia Rodrigues
An absolute must-visit for any fan of fado or follower of Portuguese cultural history is Casa Museu Amalia Rodrigues. This house-turned-museum showcases an extensive collection that provides intimate insights into the life and career of this iconic artiste. From personal artifacts such as costumes worn during performances to awards received throughout her illustrious career; every item tells an intriguing story about ‘The Queen Of Fado’.
Exploring The Surrounding Area
Beyond Calçada da Amália, lies the historic neighborhood of São Bento. Known for its antique shops and art galleries, it’s a treasure trove for those looking to delve into Lisbon’s vibrant arts scene. A short walk away is the Assembleia da República (the Portuguese Parliament), an imposing neoclassical building worth exploring for its architectural grandeur.
The Sounds Of Fado
No visit to Calçada da Amália would be complete without immersing oneself in the melancholic melodies of fado. This traditional music genre, recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage, permeates through every corner of this charming street – from local taverns where seasoned musicians strum their Portuguese guitars to impromptu performances on cobbled corners that echo with soulful serenades.
Eating And Drinking In The Area
Calçada da Amália offers some delightful culinary experiences too. Traditional Portuguese restaurants serve up hearty dishes like Bacalhau à Brás (shredded cod with eggs and potatoes) or Arroz de Pato (duck rice). For wine lovers, there are numerous vinotecas offering tastings of Portugal’s diverse range of wines – from robust red Duoros to crisp Vinho Verdes.
A Living Tribute To An Iconic Figure
In essence, Calçada da Amália serves as a living tribute to one of Portugal’s most iconic figures – a place where you can experience firsthand the enduring legacy left behind by ‘The Queen Of Fado’. Whether you’re wandering down its picturesque path or delving into her life at Casa Museu Amalia Rodrigues; it provides an enchanting journey filled with history, culture, and music that will leave you longing for more.
Frequently asked questions
What is Calçada da Amália and where is it located?
Calçada da Amália is a street in Lisbon, Portugal named after the famous Portuguese Fado singer, Amália Rodrigues. It’s situated in São Vicente parish, near the historic Alfama district. The street offers a unique journey through Lisbon’s history with its traditional houses and narrow cobblestone walkways.
Why is Calçada da Amália significant?
The significance of Calçada da Amália lies primarily in its connection to one of Portugal’s most iconic figures, fado singer Amalia Rodrigues. Known as the “Queen of Fado,” her influence on Portuguese culture was so profound that this street was renamed in her honor following her death in 1999. Her former residence here has since been turned into Casa Museu Amalia Rodrigues (Amalia Rodrigues House Museum), preserving her legacy for future generations.
What can visitors expect at Casa Museu Amalia Rodrigues?
Casa Museu Amalia Rodrigues allows visitors to step back into time and experience the life of this legendary fadista. The museum showcases personal belongings, professional awards, costumes from performances, and other memorabilia associated with her illustrious career. Visitors can explore various rooms preserved just as they were during Rodriguez’s lifetime including living areas filled with antique furniture and beautiful artwork.
How can I visit Calçada da Amália or Casa Museu amáLIA rodrigUES?
To visit Calçada da Amália or Casa Museu Amália Rodriques you will need to travel to Lisbon, Portugal. Once there you can use public transportation such as tram or bus services which regularly pass through the area. The museum operates from Tuesday to Sunday with a small admission fee. It’s recommended to check their official website for updated visiting hours and ticket prices.
What else is there to do around Calçada da Amália?
Besides visiting Casa Museu Amalia Rodrigues, you can also explore the historic district of Alfama known for its narrow streets, colorful houses, and Fado bars where you can enjoy live performances of this traditional Portuguese music genre. Nearby attractions include São Vicente de Fora Church, National Pantheon, and Feira da Ladra – Lisbon’s oldest flea market.
