We love seeking out abandoned places, but this was the first one with fixed opening hours and a security guard. It was cool but there was none of that adrenaline kick we had at the Abandoned Resort on Curacao, the Hotel Evropa in Macedonia, or the Indoor Ski Resort in Busan. But on the other hand, we didn't have any fear of getting robbed this time! Do you seek out abandoned places when you're traveling? Share your story! This article was first published TODAY on our Lisbon Travel Blog.
In the hills just to the northwest of Lisbon is one of the city’s more unique viewpoints. Although the former Restaurante Monsanto has been abandoned for years, its circular shell has remained intact. You’re no longer able to order a delicious meal, but nothing is stopping you from enjoying the views.
We were surprised to see a guard stationed at the entrance to the restaurant. Visiting an abandoned site is supposed to be slightly illicit, but that’s not the case at Monsanto. The guard waved as we entered, and we even saw a sign with opening hours for the viewpoint. The city must have realized that it could never keep the curious away from a spot this intriguing, so why even try?
The restaurant must have been remarkable when it was opened, and I wonder how it possibly could have failed. The circular architecture is weird, and the surviving murals suggest that Monsanto had style. Anyway, with a view this spectacular, it would have hardly even mattered if the food were bad.
