Belém Tower – A Monument to Portuguese Discovery
The Belém Tower, located in the Portuguese city of Lisbon, is a stunning monument to the Age of Discovery, a time in which the Portuguese were at the forefront of exploration and colonization. Built in the early 16th century, the tower is a symbol of the great feats that the Portuguese accomplished during this period. Today, the Belém Tower is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Portugal.
History of the Belém Tower
The Belém Tower was originally constructed in 1519-1520 by the famous architect Francisco de Arruda. It was commissioned by King Manuel I of Portugal as part of a defense system for the port of Lisbon. The tower was built in the Manueline style, a style of architecture which was popularized during the reign of Manuel I. The tower was used as a fortified lighthouse and was a key part of the city’s defense system.
The Belém Tower was also the starting point for many of the Portuguese voyages of discovery. It was from here that the famous explorer Vasco da Gama set sail in 1497 on his voyage to India. As such, the tower has become a symbol of the Portuguese Age of Discovery and the great feats that were accomplished during this period.
What You Can See at the Belém Tower
Today, the Belém Tower is a popular tourist attraction in Lisbon. Visitors can explore the interior of the tower, which has been beautifully restored to its original condition. Inside the tower is the Chapel of St. Mary, which is decorated with beautiful azulejos tiles. There is also a museum at the tower, which contains a variety of artifacts from the Age of Discovery.
Visitors can also explore the exterior of the tower, which is decorated with sculptures and reliefs that depict scenes from the Age of Discovery. The tower is surrounded by a moat, which can be crossed via a stone bridge. From the top of the tower, visitors can enjoy spectacular views of the Tagus River and the city of Lisbon.
Getting to the Belém Tower
The Belém Tower is located in the Belém neighborhood of Lisbon, which is easily accessible via public transportation. The closest metro station is Belém, which is just a few minutes’ walk away from the tower. Bus lines 15E, 28E, and 714 all stop near the tower, as well as the tram line 15.
Conclusion
The Belém Tower is a stunning monument to the Age of Discovery and a key part of Lisbon’s history. Built in the early 16th century, the tower is a symbol of the great feats that the Portuguese accomplished during this period. Today, the tower is a popular tourist attraction in Lisbon and is a must-see for anyone visiting the city.