As we mentioned in last week’s post, if there is one thing that characterises Lisbon, it is the coexistence of the modern and the traditional, and it is precisely this feature that makes it one of the most attractive European cities of the moment.
In the old industrial area of the city, under the 25th of April Bridge, a narrow alley (Rua Rodrigues de Faria 103, 1300, Lisbon) leads to the “creative island” of the Portuguese capital: LX Factory, also known as a world reference in the rehabilitation of factory structures. It is an area made up of cafés, artists’ studios, restaurants, tattoo, photography and design studios, coworking offices and even a bookshop that is among the most original in the world and in all the tourist guides, called Ler Devagar, all located on the remains of an old factory.
Ten years ago, the new generation of young artists and designers in Lisbon began to occupy a ramshackle industrial area on the banks of the Tagus to turn it into a creative outlet, but, above all, as a way out of the economic crisis that has been affecting youth employment in Portugal for some time now, as the rental of these premises was offered at lower prices for all young people. Nowadays, this area is one of the main routes for those who want to escape from the most touristy places.
How to get there:
• Tramway: nº 15.
•Bus: nº 714 y 732.
Passing through the archway at the entrance to the LX Factory is like travelling into an area that mixes brick buildings and protest graffiti; a certain social critique underlies its walls, however, the purpose is entirely recreational: affordable prices, really interesting shops and stalls and numerous restaurants and bars to have a good time. getting to know the latest of the latest in Lisbon.
On Sundays it hosts the “LXMarket” and twice a year it holds an “Open Day” with concerts, exhibitions, installations, urban art interventions or gastronomic demonstrations, inside and outside the establishments.
Finally, it has one of the best viewpoints with spectacular views of the Tagus River and the 25th of April Bridge: the Maravilha River. A roof terrace located on the 4th floor, which is part of a Bar/Restaurant where you can go for lunch, dinner or a drink in the evening.
Timetable:
Monday –> closed
Tuesday –> 18:00 a 02:00
Wednesday to Sunday –> 12:30 a 20:00
In short, this is a space where you can breathe in the decadent and avant-garde spirit of Lisbon; as different, singular and provocative as it is.
