Belém Tower
Nestled on the banks of the Tagus River in Lisbon, Belem Tower stands as Portugal's iconic architectural gem. Explore its intricate carvings, climb its ancient ramparts, and soak in panoramic views of the river. Belem Tower tickets offer you the chance to delve into Portugal's rich history while enjoying fast-track access and expert-guided tours.Bestseller
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According to a survey, more than 500,000 people visit the Belém Tower every year, making it the most popular tourist destination. Purchase a ticket to Belém Tower and feel free to enter during any time of the day. You can also purchase a Belém Essential Combo: Belém Tower + Jerónimos Monastery Tickets ticket to visit Lisbon’s historical attractions at a combo offer.
The tower opens at 10:00 AM, however we suggest arriving at least an hour early to tour the exterior and snap photographs while the sun is in front of the tower for the best images. Tourists come late in the morning (30 minutes before opening time) and stay till afternoon. Visit early or late in the day, a little before the final entrance, to watch the sunset!
Taking a guided tour of the Belém Tower in Lisbon is the best way to see this landmark from the 16th century and hear fascinating anecdotes from a local expert.
Although most visitors only see the outside of Torre de Belem, you should definitely go inside—if only to take in the breathtaking views from the very top! The same goes for history buffs. However, this is ultimately a matter of taste.
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About Belém Tower
The Torre de Belém or Belem Tower on the Tagus River commemorates Portugal's Age of Discoveries. It is an exquisite representation of Manueline architecture from the early 16th century and symbolises Portugal's nautical prosperity. It is one of Portugal's 7 Wonders and a National Monument and UNESCO World Heritage Site.
During the reign of King John II, there used to be a line of defence in place in the exact location where the tower is at. Later, his successor, King Manuel I believed that building a permanent tower would be more viable than having a ship on the water. This is how the construction of the Belem Tower commenced. The ship has multiple canons and this structure was replaced with a stone fortification
A fascinating Belem Tower fact is that it was constructed on a small outcrop of the Tagus River. Due to an earthquake that took place in 1755, the location of the Belem Tower shifted. The course of the river gradually moved due to the destruction and the small island got closer to the land, thus merging the two over time and making it all the more impressive. Today, the iconic structure just appea
In the year 1514, plans were in place to construct a tower, and the famous military architect Francisco de Arruda would lead the job. He was an experienced architect as he had built a lot of fortresses in North Africa earlier and was the right fit for the work. He was referred to as the ‘Master of the works of the Belem stronghold’ by the King himself and had managed to finish the tower in about 5
The Belem Tower is extremely impressive from the outside but is equally majestic from the inside as well. The first level is the Governor’s Hall, the second is the King’s Hall and the third level consists of the Audience Hall. The lower bastion consists of the canons that are kept facing over the sea to be ready to fire in case of any danger. Inside, there is a spiral staircase that can be explore
You can spot these figures on the base of the external facing turrets. It is the first representation of a rhinoceros in any Western European art. It is believed that the architects were very inspired by King Manuel I as he had gifted one of these animals to Pope Leo X in 1515. The figures are extremely small and intricately detailed.
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Porch Entrance
Entrance to the tower is granted by a porch adorned with many Manueline themes, one of which is the armillary sphere. Garlands of knotted stone cords adorn the whole tower; one such knot appears on the north side of the structure. Saint Michael the Archangel and Saint Vincent are crowned atop the tower, which has several arched windows.
The Belem Tower is visited by more than 500,000 visitors every year and is one of the most-visited landmarks in the world. It is important to know the right time or days to visit the attraction to avoid any chaos and have a hassle-free experience.
There is a wheelchair-accessible bathroom on the ground floor.