The ancient maze of galleries under the streets of Lisbon is known as the “Galerias Romanas” or Roman Galleries. These galleries are believed to have been built during the 1st century AD by the Romans to supply water to the city.
The galleries are located in the Baixa neighborhood, which is the historic center of Lisbon. The galleries are made up of a series of underground tunnels that stretch for several kilometers and are supported by stone arches. The tunnels vary in width and height, with some being only a few feet wide and others reaching up to 20 feet in height.
The Roman Galleries were rediscovered in 1771 during the reconstruction of the Baixa neighborhood after the devastating earthquake that struck Lisbon in 1755. Today, the galleries are only open to the public for a few days each year in April and September. During this time, visitors can explore the galleries and learn about their history and significance.
Visitors to the Roman Galleries can expect to see ancient artifacts and inscriptions, as well as experience the unique atmosphere of these underground tunnels. The galleries are also said to be haunted by the spirits of Roman soldiers who died while building the tunnels.
If you are interested in visiting the Roman Galleries, it is important to check the exact dates and times of the opening as they can vary from year to year. It is also recommended to book tickets in advance as they tend to sell out quickly due to the limited number of visitors allowed inside the galleries at any given time.
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