Belém Tower (Lisbon) - Visitor Information & Reviews

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Belém Tower and its collection

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Belém Tower, also known as Torre de Belém, is a Manueline-Gothic fortress tower located in Lisbon, Portugal. Built in the early 16th century, the tower commemorates Vasco da Gama and the city's patron saint, São Vicente. It served both as a part of the city's defense and as a ceremonial monument to certify Portugal's influence during the European Age of Discovery.

Location and Access to Belém Tower

The tower was primarily tasked with defending the area where the Tagus River flows into the Atlantic Ocean. It is situated on a basalt rock in the river. Originally, the rock and the tower were in the middle of the river, which has since changed its course. As a result, the tower is now only a few meters from the shore, and it can be accessed via a narrow bridge.

Belém Tower and UNESCO World Heritage Status

In 1983, the tower and the nearby Jerónimos Monastery were included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. This recognition highlights the historical and architectural significance of these sites, making them a point of interest for tourists visiting Lisbon.

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Visitor information Belém Tower

Opening hours

October - April: 10 am to 5:30 pm.
May - September: 10 am to 6.30 pm.
Closed: Mondays, 1 January, Easter Sunday, 1 May and 25 December.

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Admission

0 – 11	Free
65+	50% discount
Adults	€6.00

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Facilities

We don't have information about the facilities of Belém Tower.

Location & Map

Av. Brasília, Lisbon

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Exhibitions

No exhibitions in Belém Tower have been found.

Belém Tower Reviews

Belém Tower has 1 rating.

Apollo's Insights AI-Generated

Belém Tower, located in Lisbon, Portugal, is a 16th-century fortification that stands as an iconic symbol of Portugal's Age of Discovery. Visitors appreciate its striking Manueline architecture, which combines Gothic and Renaissance elements. The tower offers panoramic views of the Tagus River and surrounding area from its upper levels.

Many reviewers highlight the historical significance of the structure, noting its UNESCO World Heritage status. The intricate stone carvings and maritime motifs on the exterior are frequently mentioned as impressive features. Some visitors recommend arriving early to avoid long queues, especially during peak tourist seasons.

While most find the interior interesting, a few mention that it can feel cramped and crowded when busy. Some reviewers note that the climbing of narrow staircases may be challenging for those with mobility issues. A common suggestion is to combine a visit to Belém Tower with other nearby attractions like the Jerónimos Monastery and the Monument to the Discoveries for a full day of exploration in the Belém district.

Overall, Belém Tower is widely regarded as an essential stop for those interested in Portuguese history and architecture. However, some visitors feel that the experience can be somewhat brief compared to larger museums or palaces.

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Belém Tower

Belém Tower and its collection

Location and Access to Belém Tower

Belém Tower and UNESCO World Heritage Status

Images of Belém Tower

Visitor information Belém Tower

Opening hours

Admission

Facilities

Location & Map

Exhibitions

Belém Tower Reviews

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Jerónimos Monastery

Museu Arqueológico do Carmo

Lisbon Cathedral

Saint George's Castle

Berardo Collection Museum

Church of Saint Roch

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