Belém Tower – A Timeless Guardian of Lisbon

#cityplaybook #familytrip #localguides The Belém Tower (Torre de Belém), a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stands proudly on the banks of the Tagus River in Lisbon, Portugal. Built in the early 16th century during the height of the Age of Discoveries, it served both as a defensive fortress and a ceremonial gateway to the city. Designed in the Manueline architectural style, the tower showcases ornate stone carvings, maritime motifs, and the distinctive armillary sphere—symbolic of Portugal’s global exploration legacy. Commissioned by King Manuel I and completed in 1519, Belém Tower once stood on a small island in the Tagus, but today it’s connected to the mainland due to the river’s course change over time. The structure is made from lioz limestone, giving it its characteristic light hue. Inside, visitors can explore narrow spiral staircases leading to the governor’s quarters, dungeons, and an upper terrace offering panoramic views of the river and the Jerónimos Monastery nearby. The tower also houses cannons once used to defend Lisbon’s harbor. A symbol of Portugal’s golden age of exploration, the Belém Tower is more than just a monument—it’s a tribute to navigators, maritime prowess, and Lisbon’s historical importance as a global port. Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM (Closed on Mondays and certain holidays) Admission Fee: €6 (discounts available for combined tickets with nearby attractions) Location: Avenida Brasília, Lisbon, Portugal #belemtower #torredebelem #lisbonlandmarks #unescoheritage #ageofdiscoveries #visitportugal #manuelinearchitecture #portuguesehistory #tagusriver #culturaltreasures