BELEM TOWER
Lisbon's icon; a symbol of the Age of Discovery
Built in 1515 as a fortress to guard the entrance to Lisbon's harbor, the
Belem Tower was the starting point for many of the voyages of discovery, and
for the sailors it was the last sight of their homeland.
It is a monument to Portugal's Age of Discovery, often serving as a symbol
of the country, and UNESCO has listed it as a World Heritage monument.
Built in the Manueline style, it incorporates many stonework motifs of
the Discoveries, sculptures depicting historical figures such as St. Vincent
and an exotic rhinoceros that inspired Dürer's drawing of the beast.
The
architect, Francisco de Arruda, had previously worked on Portuguese
fortifications in Morocco, so there are also Moorish-style watchtowers and
other Moorish influences. Facing the river are arcaded windows, delicate
Venetian-style loggias, and a statue of Our Lady of Safe Homecoming, a
symbol of protection for sailors on their voyages.
SEE ALSO: Belem Tower's Top 10 Highlights>>
Get FREE admission to Belem Tower and ride Lisbon's metro, buses, and trams for free with the Lisboa Card.
UNESCO says...Belem Tower was declared a World Heritage monument because: |
How to Visit
Where: Avenida da India, Belem.
How: Tram 15
When: 10AM-5PM (Oct.-April), 10AM-6:30PM (May-Sept.), Closed Mondays
How much: 5 euros or FREE with the Lisboa Card
Sights Nearby
Jeronimos
Monastery - A World Heritage monument; Vasco da Gama's resting place.
Discoveries
Monument - The world's explorers in stone.
Berardo Museum - World-class collection of modern art.
Coaches
Museum - The world's largest collection of magnificent royal coaches.
Maritime
Museum - The story of Portugal's pioneering role in world exploration at the sea.
Archaeology
Museum - Archaeological finds from over the centuries.
Belem Cultural
Center - Modern cultural center with regular exhibitions and events.
Tropical
Garden - Beautiful garden with rare plants from around the world.
Belem
Palace - The home of Portugal's President.
Memoria
Church - Elegant neoclassical church.
Ajuda
Palace - An extravagant royal palace.
Ajuda
Botanical Garden - Beautiful gardens overlooking the river.
25
de Abril Bridge - Golden Gate's twin sister.
Docas - Attractive dock area with cosmopolitan
bars and restaurants.
Monument to
Christ - Christ opens His arms to the city.
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