Hieronymite Monastery of Lisbon
Discover the 16th-century Mosteiro dos Jerónimos in Lisbon, a historic symbol of Portugal's Age of Discovery and final resting place of Vasco da Gama.
Tower in Lisbon
Torre de Belém
This 16th-century fortress guards Lisbon's harbor with intricate Manueline stonework, Europe's first rhinoceros carving, and five floors connected by a narrow spiral staircase.
The Torre de Belém rises from the Tagus River's edge, with its Manueline stonework displaying maritime motifs, twisted ropes, and Europe's first stone carving of a rhinoceros. This 16th-century fortress in the Belém district, near the Jerónimos Monastery, protected Lisbon's harbor while welcoming ships entering the city.
Architecture and Design
The tower consists of two main parts: a 30-meter rectangular tower and a hexagonal bastion extending into the river. The beige-white Lioz limestone walls show detailed carvings of nautical themes, twisted rope patterns, and armillary spheres. Each corner has a Moorish-inspired watchtower, while Gothic arches frame the windows and balconies. On the south façade, you'll find a Renaissance loggia with detailed balustrades facing the water.
Interior Spaces
A narrow spiral staircase connects all five floors. The ground floor has 16th-century cannon rooms with original gun ports. Above that, you'll find the Governor's Hall with ribbed vaulting, followed by the Kings' Hall with royal symbols, and the Audience Hall where officials met visitors. The fourth floor includes a chapel with religious artwork, and from the rooftop terrace, you can see across the Tagus Estuary and Belém district.
Visiting Information
You can visit Tuesday through Sunday between 9:30 AM and 5:30 PM (last entry 5:00 PM). Adult tickets cost €8, while students and seniors pay €4. Portuguese residents enter free on Sundays. The tower allows 150 visitors at once, creating morning queues of 30-45 minutes during peak season.
Getting There
Take tram 15 from Praça da Figueira in central Lisbon directly to Belém. Alternatively, catch a seven-minute train ride from Cais do Sodré station to Belém station. Both options leave you with a 10-minute walk along the waterfront to the tower, passing the Discoveries Monument and waterfront cafes.
Tips for Visitors
Come before 10:00 AM to avoid long waits, especially in July and August. The spiral staircase is only 1 meter wide, making two-way traffic slow during busy hours. Visit during high tide to see the tower completely surrounded by water. Purchase a combined ticket with Jerónimos Monastery to save €6 on total admission price.
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