Best Articles

Iconic Belem Tower: The Jewel of Lisbon’s Waterfront

By Gonzalo

Posted on October 21, 2023

Belem Tower: A Timeless Icon of Portugal’s Maritime Glory

Nestled on the banks of the Tagus River in Lisbon, Portugal, stands the majestic Belem Tower, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of Portugal’s Age of Discovery. This architectural marvel, with its rich history and stunning views, is a must-visit for any traveler exploring the enchanting city of Lisbon.

History of Belem Tower

The Belem Tower, or Torre de Belém, was commissioned by King John II in the early 16th century as part of a defense system at the mouth of the Tagus River and a ceremonial gateway to Lisbon. The tower was built during the height of the Portuguese Renaissance, under the supervision of military architect Francisco de Arruda.

The tower’s design is a fusion of Gothic and Moorish elements, with hints of Italian Renaissance – a style known as Manueline. This unique architectural style is characterized by ornate detailing and maritime motifs, reflecting Portugal’s seafaring prowess during the Age of Discovery.

Over the centuries, Belem Tower has served various purposes. It was a fortress, a customs control point, a telegraph station, and even a political prison during the Liberal Wars of the 19th century. Today, it stands as a testament to Portugal’s rich maritime history and architectural grandeur.

Facts about Belem Tower

The Belem Tower is a four-story structure standing 30 meters high. The lower bastion, once used for artillery, now houses an exhibition on the tower’s history. The second floor was the Governor’s Hall, where the tower’s commander lived. The Kings Hall on the third floor was used for meetings with royalty, while the top floor served as a chapel.

One of the most striking features of Belem Tower is its intricate stonework. The exterior is adorned with rope-like loops, shields bearing the Cross of the Order of Christ, and stone-carved rhinoceros – a tribute to the first rhino seen in Europe, gifted to King Manuel I by an Indian sultan.

The tower’s terrace offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Tagus River and the city of Lisbon. It’s a perfect spot for photography enthusiasts and anyone who appreciates scenic vistas.

Opening Times and Ticket Prices

Belem Tower is open to the public from Tuesday to Sunday. The opening hours are from 10:00 am to 5:30 pm (last admission at 5:00 pm) between October and April, and from 10:00 am to 6:30 pm (last admission at 6:00 pm) between May and September. The tower is closed on Mondays and certain public holidays.

The standard ticket price for adults is €6, while children under 14 years can enter for free. There are also discounted rates for students, seniors, and families. Tickets can be purchased online or at the entrance. It’s advisable to buy tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist season, to avoid long queues.

Experience Lisbon with Portugal Magik Tours

After exploring the historical grandeur of Belem Tower, why not delve deeper into the heart of Lisbon with a private tour? Portugal Magik Tours, an award-winning tour company on TripAdvisor for the last 12 years in Portugal, offers a range of tour options tailored to your interests.

With Portugal Magik Tours, you’ll travel in style in luxury vehicles driven by expert guides who will share their deep knowledge of Portugal’s history, culture, and attractions. Whether you want to explore Lisbon’s vibrant neighborhoods, taste exquisite Portuguese wines, or visit the stunning palaces of Sintra, Portugal Magik Tours has you covered.

As a Hall Of Fame tour company, Portugal Magik Tours guarantees an unforgettable travel experience. You can book your private tour of Lisbon directly from the official website https://www.portugal-magik.com or by calling (929) 534-7500 if you’re in the USA.

So, why wait? Embark on a journey of discovery and create lasting memories with Portugal Magik Tours. Lisbon, with its rich history and vibrant culture, awaits you!

–

Author
Recent Posts

Gonzalo

Founder & Owner at The Lisbon Guide

20 Years Experience
Travel Advisor & Passionate for Portugal

to send me a message

Passionate traveler, travel planner, private tour guide, and travel article writer in Portugal.
Owner of The Lisbon Guide with more than 250.000 pages visited every year (5 million views in 12 years)

I'm based in Lisbon/Portugal and experienced in travel planning, tour guiding, and entrepreneurship since 1996, and guiding customers for over 20 years across Portugal. Helping customers from all over the world, planning their stay in Portugal. I'm also an avid TripAdvisor user level 6 with more than 300.000 readers worldwide, assisting thousands of travelers yearly to plan their perfect trip.

*Disclaimer: All articles on this website express solely my opinion, and some services can be provided directly by myself, or through any partner.