About the city and the twinning
About Lisbon
Lisbon, known in Portuguese as Lisboa, is the capital of Portugal. It stands on the banks of the Tagus River near its mouth on the Atlantic Ocean. The city’s waterfront reflects its long maritime history, while the broad streets of its lower town reflect the reconstruction that followed the earthquake of 1755.
Two of Lisbon’s most prominent landmarks stand in the riverside district of Belém. The Jerónimos Monastery, commissioned by King Manuel I, is a major example of the Portuguese Manueline architectural style. The nearby Belém Tower was built in the early 16th century as part of the defences at the entrance to Lisbon’s harbour. UNESCO inscribed the two monuments together on the World Heritage List in 1983.
Cooperation with Bethlehem
On 2 November 1995, Bethlehem Mayor Elias Freij and Lisbon Mayor Jorge Sampaio signed a Friendship and Co-operation Agreement in Bethlehem. The agreement took effect upon signing and established formal ties between the two cities. It calls for technical cooperation between the municipalities and for tourism and cultural exchanges to help residents learn more about each other’s cities. It identifies youth exchanges as a way to strengthen the relationship.