Belém Tower

About one km east of the Jeronimos Monastery is another supreme example of Manueline architecture & prime symbol of the Portuguese capital, Belém Tower aka the Torre de Belém or Torre de São Vicente. The tower was also constructed during the reign of Manuel I and was built for very practical reasons (although now this is difficult to believe).

The tower’s initial purpose was the control the entrance to the city from the sea. Completed in 1521 this elegant construction is a mirror image of Portugal at its finest, reflecting the confidence & wealth of the Age of Discoveries. Its architecture blends Moorish elements like the watchtowers, delicate Venetian-style loggias & the exuberant Gothic Manueline style in an absolute feast for the modern eyes.

The climb to its top (fourth floor) is worth a while not just for the view but also to marvel at the balusters and elaborate turrets on top. Experts say the best view of the tower is from Padrão dos Descobrimentos (Monument of the Discoveries), which was also constructed to honor the Age of Discovery maritime explorers. More