Belem Tower
The ornate riverside fortress that guarded Lisbon's harbour - a jewel of Manueline stone rising from the Tagus, symbol of Portugal's age of discovery, a UNESCO site.
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Illustrative image - a scene in the spirit of the place, not a photograph of it. Real photos are below.
UNESCO World Heritage
The Belem Tower is one of the great symbols of Portugal, a small but exquisitely ornate fortress of white limestone rising from the edge of the Tagus, built in the early sixteenth century to guard the harbour from which the explorers set sail. A UNESCO jewel of the Manueline style, carved with maritime motifs and turrets, it stands for the age of discovery when Portugal ruled the seas.
What you actually see
- The ornate tower - the carved Manueline fortress rising from the river.
- The riverside setting - the tower on the Tagus in the Belem district.
- The Monument to the Discoveries - the great modern monument nearby.
- The Jeronimos Monastery - the UNESCO monastery a short walk away.
When to go
Spring and autumn for mild weather; summer is hot and busy. It is small, so a quick visit, best combined with the nearby monastery and a famous custard tart at the original bakery in Belem.
Honest expectations
It is small, so the interior is a quick visit and can queue; many are content to admire it from outside. It sits some way from the centre in Belem, easily paired with the monastery. The waterfront around it is busy with visitors.
Nearby
The Jeronimos Monastery, the Monument to the Discoveries and the famous Pasteis de Belem bakery are close.
What to pack for Belem Tower
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.
