With the outbreak of World War II, it became increasingly difficult for persecuted people to flee to other countries. Yet around 100,000 traveled through France and Spain to reach Portugal.
The city on the Tejo was a haven of hope for Jewish and politically persecuted refugees. They came to Lisbon to travel overseas to the US and elsewhere - anywhere to escape the Nazis. But a small number stayed.
Originally from Berlin, Ruth Arons has since made Lisbon her home.