Point of interest
Torre de Belém
in Lisboa, Portugal
UNESCO World Heritage fort and icon of the Age of Discovery on the Tagus; small inside, so admire the exterior – you can usually skip the queue.
Where it is
On the bank of the Tagus in the western district of Belém, by Praça do Império, a few kilometres from the city centre.
Address: Avenida de Brasília, 1400-038 Lisbon
What it is
Built of limestone, the tower is a highlight of Manueline architecture, with maritime stone carvings and Moorish-inspired turrets. You can climb the bastion and four floors and enjoy sweeping views over the river from the terrace. A must-see on any visit to the Belém district.
History
The tower was built between 1514 and 1520 under King Manuel I by the architect Francisco de Arruda as a fortress guarding the entrance to the harbour. It was raised to commemorate Vasco da Gama's voyage to India and stands as a symbol of the Portuguese Age of Discovery. Since 1983 it has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site together with the Jerónimos Monastery.
More in Lisboa
Mosteiro dos JerónimosPoint of interest
Castelo de São JorgePoint of interest
AlfamaPoint of interest
Tram 28 (Elétrico 28)Point of interest
Time Out Market (Mercado da Ribeira)Point of interest
Miradouro de São Pedro de AlcântaraPoint of interest
SintraPoint of interest
Beach 19 (Praia da Bela Vista, Costa da Caparica)Beach