The largest river of the Iberian Peninsula, the Tagus, Tajo, or Tejo, flows through the two countries at once, Spain and Portugal. Hence the multiple names, and the historical significance. This is where the history of the Portuguese capital began. Abounding in diverse flora and fauna, the picturesque banks of the Tagus attracted the Phoenicians in the 12th century. In the Middle Ages, it was an important trade center and the starting point of famous sea expeditions. Today, the river continues to be of particular importance. Its banks house the main hydroelectric power stations and reservoirs of the country. And the wonderful Tagus embankment in modern Lisbon is one of the most visited tourist attractions and the center of nightlife.

The rapid waters of the river caress the lands of several urban areas, but the most popular place is the Tagus embankment. It stretches from the ancient stone Belem Tower, erected in honor of the discovery of the sea route to India by the legendary navigator Vasco da Gama, to the historic Commerce Square, built on the site of the royal Ribeira Palace, which was destroyed by an earthquake in the 18th century.

You can enjoy a charming view of the river embankment from the water surface during a wonderful tourist boat trip. But the best way is to take a leisurely walk along the bank, as there are many historical and cultural monuments. Not far from the Belem Tower, there is the Monument of the Discoveries, a monumental ensemble dedicated to the outstanding Portuguese of the Age of Exploration. A huge white caravel with the figures of thirty-three navigators, geographers and historians, poets and writers, artists, missionaries, and other Portuguese who made their invaluable contribution to world history seems to set off for new adventures and discoveries.

The Tagus embankment offers a magnificent view of the 25th of April Bridge, connecting Lisbon and Almada. You can also see a giant statue of Jesus Christ rising on the Almada side. And, of course, the main treasure of the embankment is the legendary Commerce Square with the statue of King Joseph I and the majestic Triumphal Arch.