Mind Lisbon’s slippery sidewalks

The Wall Street Journal article “Slippery Slope: Famous Sidewalks Of Lisbon Have Concrete Competition” by Patricia Kowsmann (June 2, 2014) speaks of the beautiful, colorful, 5-inch-wide, limestone cube tiles that were painstakingly crafted and laid alongside Lisbon’s streets during the 19th century.

I personally witnessed the beauty of these tiles when my wife and I visited in May 2014. They add to the charm of this city. However, be aware of how slippery they can get when wet.

My wife and I did not slip, nor did we witness anyone else slipping. The weather was beautiful for our 3-day stay, so the only wet tiles we saw were a result of the watering of plants and grass. When walking on those tiles, however, we were very careful.

Considering this and the fact that very little of Lisbon is level, when walking in that city, pay particular attention to your footwear to reduce the potential for falls. You need something that will provide good traction. 

Among the locals, some want to see the sidewalks paved over and others want them left alone. Lisbon’s municipal government surveyed 200 Lisboners ages 55 and over in 2010. They found that half of them had fallen while walking on the sidewalks.

This is not to discourage people from visiting. On the contrary, I encourage people to visit this beautiful city. Just step carefully and don’t rush.

IRWIN SCHATZMAN

Scottsdale, AZ