Belém Tower and Monument to the Discoveries: A Journey Through Lisbon’s Age of Discovery
Lisbon, the capital city of Portugal, is a city steeped in history and culture. One of the most fascinating aspects of Lisbon’s history is the Age of Discovery, a time when Portuguese explorers set out to discover new trade routes and territories around the world. Two of the most iconic landmarks that celebrate this period of exploration are the Belém Tower and the Monument to the Discoveries.
Belém Tower, also known as the Tower of St. Vincent, is a fortress located on the banks of the Tagus River. It was built in the early 16th century to protect Lisbon from invaders, and it is now a UNESCO World Heritage site. The tower is a beautiful example of Manueline architecture, with intricate details and ornate carvings. Visitors can climb up to the top of the tower to enjoy stunning views of the river and the surrounding area.
Just a short walk from Belém Tower is the Monument to the Discoveries, a striking statue that celebrates Portugal’s Age of Discovery. The monument was built in 1960 to commemorate the 500th anniversary of the death of Prince Henry the Navigator, a key figure in Portugal’s exploration of the world. The statue features many famous explorers, including Vasco da Gama and Magellan, as well as Henry the Navigator himself.
Visitors to the monument can take an elevator to the top of the structure for panoramic views of the Tagus River and the surrounding area. The monument also houses a museum that explores Portugal’s history of exploration and the impact it had on the world.
Together, Belém Tower and the Monument to the Discoveries offer a fascinating glimpse into Lisbon’s Age of Discovery. They are both must-see destinations for anyone interested in history, architecture, or culture. Don’t miss the chance to visit these iconic landmarks and explore the rich history of Lisbon and Portugal.
How to get to Belém Tower.
There are several options for transportation to Belém Tower in Lisbon:
1. Tram: Tram 15E is a popular option for reaching Belém Tower. It runs from Praça da Figueira in the city center, passing through several historic neighborhoods before reaching Belém. The tram ride takes about 25-30 minutes, depending on traffic.
2. Train: Another option is to take the train to Belém station, located a short walk from the tower. The train departs from Lisbon’s Cais do Sodré station and takes about 10-15 minutes to reach Belém.
3. Bus: Bus 728 runs from the city center to Belém, with several stops along the way. The bus ride takes about 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic.
4. Taxi or Uber: Taxis and Uber are widely available in Lisbon and can be a convenient option for reaching Belém Tower. The ride from the city center takes around 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic.
Regardless of which transportation option you choose, be sure to check the schedules and fares before you go, as they may vary depending on the time of day and other factors. With its convenient location and easy access, Belém Tower is definitely worth a visit while you’re in Lisbon!