Historical Outdoor Game in Lisbon The Cryptex of Pombal

The Cryptex of Pombal is an engaging outdoor game that transports participants back to 18th century Lisbon. Visitors can step into the shoes of the Marquis of Pombal, known for his efforts to modernize the city after a devastating earthquake. Teams work together to solve puzzles using authentic maps and historical artifacts, guided by a multilingual tour leader. This unique blend of history and adventure challenges problem-solving skills, making it a captivating experience for families and adults alike. But what secrets will players uncover about Lisbon’s reconstruction?

Key Points

1. The Cryptex of Pombal is a 2.5-hour historical outdoor game set in 18th-century Lisbon, focusing on the Marquis of Pombal’s reforms and the reconstruction of the city.

2. The game challenges participants’ problem-solving skills through a series of puzzles based on real historical facts, using authentic paper maps and artifacts.

3. Participants are guided by a multilingual tour guide disguised as a member of a secret organization, enhancing the thrill of the experience through captivating storytelling.

4. The game is suitable for adults and children aged 8 and older, with a maximum of 10 participants, and groups of 4 or more can compete in teams.

5. Smartphones are not allowed, and the tour may be canceled due to inclement weather or low participation, ensuring an immersive and authentic historical experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Activity Overview

The Cryptex of Pombal is a historical outdoor game in Lisbon that immerses participants in the 18th century by challenging them to solve puzzles based on real events and artifacts.

This 2.5-hour experience costs $23.94 per person, with a maximum of 10 participants. Groups of 4 or more can compete in teams.

No smartphones are allowed – the game relies on authentic paper maps and artifacts. Guided by an English, Russian, and Portuguese-speaking tour guide disguised as a secret organization member, the tour explores key Lisbon locations.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance.

Historical Background

Although set in modern times, the Cryptex of Pombal historical outdoor game in Lisbon immerses participants in the 18th century through the lens of the Marquis of Pombal, a prominent statesman who played a pivotal role in restructuring Portugal during this period.

Referred to as the "Iron Duke", the Marquis implemented sweeping reforms that modernized the country, including the reconstruction of Lisbon after a devastating earthquake.

Gameplay and Puzzles

As participants embark on the historical outdoor game, they’ll find themselves immersed in an interactive experience that challenges their problem-solving skills. Using authentic paper maps and artifacts, they must solve a series of puzzles based on real historical facts from 18th-century Portugal. The goal is to unlock the cryptex and uncover the secrets of the Marquis de Pombal. The experience is further enhanced by a guide disguised as a member of a secret organization, adding an element of intrigue and mystery to the adventure.

| Puzzle Type | Description |

|————-|————-|

| Historical Clues | Discover facts about 18th-century Portugal to progress through the game. |

| Artifact Decoding | Decipher codes and hidden messages within physical artifacts. |

| Teamwork | Collaborate with fellow participants to solve complex challenges. |

Guided Tour Experience

Complementing the interactive puzzle-solving aspect of the experience, the guided tour immerses participants in the historical narrative.

Led by Alex, a knowledgeable guide fluent in English, Russian, and Portuguese, the tour brings the Marquis de Pombal’s 18th-century Portugal to life.

Disguised as a member of a secret organization, the guide engages guests with captivating stories and real historical facts as they navigate key locations across Lisbon.

The multi-lingual guidance ensures an inclusive experience for international visitors.

Throughout the 2.5-hour adventure, the guide’s engaging persona and expert storytelling enhance the thrill of unlocking the cryptex’s secrets.

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Key Locations and Itinerary

The tour begins at the Statue of António Ribeiro in Baixa-Chiado, a central metro station in Lisbon.

Participants head to Largo do Carmo, a historic square, for the first 20 minutes.

Next, they go to Largo Rafael Bordalo Pinheiro 28 for another 20 minutes.

The tour then moves to Miradouro de Sao Pedro de Alcantara, a scenic viewpoint, for 20 minutes.

Bairro Alto, a lively neighborhood, is the focus for 40 minutes.

The final stop is Praça Luís de Camões, a public square, for the last 20 minutes before returning to the starting point.

Participant Requirements

This outdoor game experience is recommended for adults and older children, as it may not be suitable for younger participants under 8 years old. Wheelchair users and individuals with mobility impairments may also find it challenging. Participants are advised to wear comfortable shoes for the 2.5-hour duration. The tour may be canceled due to inclement weather or if fewer than 2 people sign up.

| Participant Requirements |

| — | — | — | — | — |

| Age | 8+ |

| Mobility | No wheelchairs or impairments |

| Attire | Comfortable shoes |

| Group Size | 4+ can compete in teams |

| Weather | Tour may be canceled for bad weather |

Customer Feedback and Ratings

With the participant requirements covered, let’s turn our attention to the robust customer feedback and ratings for this historical outdoor game in Lisbon.

The Cryptex of Pombal boasts an impressive overall rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars based on 5 reviews. Customers frequently praise the fun and challenging nature of the experience, as well as the engaging historical content.

The tour guide, Alex, received specific acclaim for his excellent hosting abilities in English, Russian, and Portuguese.

Booking and Pricing Information

Although the Cryptex of Pombal is a historical outdoor game in Lisbon, it offers flexible booking options and affordable pricing. Participants can reserve their spot now and pay later, with prices starting at $23.94 per person. The activity also features a free cancellation policy, allowing guests to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

| Booking & Pricing | Details |

|——————-|———|

| Duration | 2.5 hours |

| Price | From $23.94 per person |

| Cancellation | Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance |

| Payment | Reserve now, pay later |

| Group Size | Maximum 10 participants; groups of 4+ can compete in teams |

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Game Available in Other Languages Besides English?

The game is available in multiple languages besides English. According to the experience details, the guided tour is conducted in English, Russian, and Portuguese, catering to a diverse international audience.

Can I Bring My Own Mobile Device to Help Solve Puzzles?

No, mobile devices are not allowed on the tour. The experience is designed to be a technology-free, authentic historical adventure. Participants must use the provided paper maps and artifacts to solve the puzzles without the aid of smartphones or other digital tools.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Participating in the Game?

The activity has age restrictions, as it’s recommended for adults and older children only. It’s not suitable for children under 8, wheelchair users, or individuals with mobility impairments. Participants must be able to walk for the duration of the experience.

How Do I Get to the Starting Point From My Hotel?

To get to the starting point from your hotel, take the metro to the Baixa-Chiado station. The activity’s starting point is at the Statue of António Ribeiro, which is a short walk from the metro station.

Can I Leave the Group at Any Point During the Game?

No, participants are expected to remain with the group throughout the experience. Leaving the group early is not permitted, as it could disrupt the interactive game and tour flow. The game is designed as a cohesive, guided activity.

The Sum Up

The Cryptex of Pombal is an immersive outdoor game that transports participants to 18th century Lisbon, challenging them to solve puzzles and uncover the secrets of the city’s reconstruction. This unique blend of history and adventure encourages teamwork and problem-solving skills, making it a captivating experience for both families and adults. With its guided tour, authentic artifacts, and engaging gameplay, the Cryptex of Pombal offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity to step into the past and explore the legacy of the Marquis of Pombal.

You can check availability for your dates here: