Amigos da Severa Lisbon
Ginjinha, history and Fado
Alexandre from Lisbon
Fado is well known around the world as "world music", the song of Portugal and a unique music gender born on the streets of Lisbon, several hundred years ago. As the legend tells, this exact spot is actually the birth place of this song. So, for historical and cultural purposes you definitely should visit Amigos da Severa.
Far from the days of cultural and bohemian life of drinks, prostitutes and rude seamen gathering in the "tascas" populating this part of Lisbon, today we can only have a glimpse of it. And this is what this spot might let you imagine. It is said that Fado was born here, as a blend of cultural influences from all over the world and a strong Arabic heritage of the Portuguese nation.
The legend says that a young girl lived on this street and became famous not only for her beauty but also for her voice; her name was Maria Severa. And it is said that "Amigos da Severa" was her father's "tasca" – a place of men, drinks and prostitutes – where she served and sang. And it was not only the poor and drunk working men she charmed; a noble is said to have fallen in love with her and thus made her famous.
She died young but her story remains with us forever. With luck you might get to assist amateur fado live while Sr. António serves you a "ginjinha".
A smart choice over the "touristic" gijinhas in central square Rossio.
Lisbon Spotter Alexandre
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