In November I, 1755, Portugal was devastated by a huge earthquake. Many people were in Church celebrating the All Saints Day. Modern day estimates place the quake at a nine on the Richter Scale. Fires started and people rushed outside, away from the buildings into the streets and then a huge tsunami killed many. Thousands of people died and most of the city was destroyed. Only a few buildings remained.Two of the buildings which survived were impressive stone structures that we visited.
One was the Hieronymites Church, which was finished in 1601. It is a starkly beautiful stone edifice, made of limestone. The workers often engraved symbols or designs in the huge rocks as they placed them in position, leaving their mark there forever. There are many statues in the Church but for me, the massive stone structure itself was a symbol of the importance of having a good foundation when you are assaulted by the elements or life in general.
The other building was a wine cellar, with thick stone walls. Today it is the location of a restaurant where we had a delicious dinner and enjoyed Portuguese music, singing and dancing. The singers were exceptional, the music, at times tender, but always passionate, The dancers, in traditional costume, paid homage to the seafaring past and life in Portugal. The musicians played a variety of instruments, including the Portuguese guitar, accordion, pine cones, and the top of a huge jug.
Former wine celler turned restaurant
Like the buildings, the Portuguese cultural heritage has survived and is thriving.
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