Lisbon is not only the capital of Portugal, but it’s also the largest and most populated city in the country, with a population of approximately 2.8 million people. Of course, there are many reasons why people decide to purchase property in Lisbon, but in this article we’ll take a look at the top ten reasons.
Economy: Lisbon is the wealthiest city in Portugal and it is also significantly above the Gross Domestic Product per capita average for the European Union. Lisbon produces over 45% of the GDP for all of Portugal. It is an important financial district as well as an emerging forerunner in the technology sector. This city is also home to the largest mass multi-media sector in Portugal with several competing companies in each of television, radio and print. With a plethora of employment opportunities in a variety of industries, it is clear that the economy is a leading factor in choosing Lisbon as a place to purchase property.
Political Stability: Not only is Lisbon the capital of Portugal, but it’s also the seat of the Portuguese government and the Head of State. Having become a Republic in 1910, the official name for Portugal’s Head of State is President of the Portuguese Republic. As with many other countries, the head of state is elected on a five year basis and can be in office for two five year terms. For obvious reasons, this form of political stability helps to attract new Lisbon property buyers who wish to live under such secure circumstances.
Ideal Climate: Lisbon is fortunate enough to have sunshine for most part of the year, and of course it’s also one of the most pleasant climates in Europe, where daytime temperatures rarely exceed 29 degrees centigrade. The winters which can be cool and rainy also remain mild, thus meaning that residents will hardly ever experience weather which is too warm or too cold. With such ideal weather conditions, many foreigners find it an ideal place to purchase property.
Standard of Living: A higher standard of living is what prompts many to purchase property within Lisbon. Taking advantage of a dynamic economy which provides jobs, services and goods which are not always accessible in smaller communities provides a way of life that is made easier by having such amenities available. Living in the prosperous capital city provides a far different life when compared to rural or small town life.
Fascinating Culture: As far as ancient architecture is concerned, Lisbon is in no short supply. In fact, the city is home to several museums, galleries, monuments, theaters, and some world class opera houses which frequently host world class performers. The region has also been the venue for the world famous Rock in Rio pop-rock festival several times.
Infrastructure: The city of Lisbon contains a network of public transportation which includes the Metro which connects the center of the city with the various outlying districts. Expansion plans will include connecting the airport as well as other outer districts to the whole. The metro is supported by bus, tram and funicular routes. Bus services also connect Lisbon to other cities and operate from terminals located throughout the city. In addition, there are major train lines for both commuter and distance travel to various points in Portugal. Car travel is facilitated by a network of roadways and Lisbon is encircled by three major motorways. Finally, the Portela Airport is located inside Lisbon and offers flights to Europe, Africa and North America.
Top Class Education: Another reason for so many people wanting to purchase property in Lisbon is because the region maintains a solid school education system. This includes private schools and public schools where pupils can choose between a secular setting or a non-secular setting. Furthermore, there are a number of international schools where English is the first language, as well as some catering for other major languages. One can also find three different public universities, a state run institute, and also a polytechnic institute. Lisbon prides itself in being able to offer students a level of education that is competitive to the level of education found in other popular European cities.
Dynamic History: The sheer extent of Lisbon’s dynamic history can clearly be seen in the city’s architecture and the many and monuments. One of the most striking things about Lisbon is that the city manages to blend its ancient past with modern day living so effortlessly. For example, one can find high tech cyber cafs situated inside buildings which are hundreds of years old, and of course many people find this sort of fusion appealing, and as a result, they favor the idea of purchasing property in Lisbon so that they too can become part of such a dynamic city.
Active International Presence: The European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction and the European Maritime Safety Agency, both of which are major European Union agencies, are located in Lisbon, and of course their presence has put Lisbon on the international stage.
Parkland: Covering nearly one thousand hectares, the Monsanto Forest Park is a large area of park land which occupies the western side of Lisbon. It is considered to be one of the largest urban center parks in all of Europe and adds a wonderfully green and natural element to this cosmopolitan city. The Monsanto Forest Park also includes the Ecological Park of Lisbon as well as the Monsanto Park Circuit which was home to many races including the 1959 Portuguese Grand Prix. The emphasis and pride in green spaces is attractive to many when choosing to purchase property in an urban setting.
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