Inside Belém Tower: Must-See Attractions & Hidden Gems
Inside Belém Tower: Must-See Attractions & Hidden Gems
Located in the eponymous district of Lisbon, Belém Tower was built in the 16th century and is one of the finest examples of the Manueline style. The picturesque tower, along with the nearby Jerónimos Monastery, has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1983.
With its over 500-year history and impressive architecture, the picturesque fortress is one of the top sights in Portugal’s capital and a must-visit for every Lisbon traveler.
Join us now on an immersive exploration inside Belém Tower as we unlock the doors to its fascinating interior, telling the stories etched into each room and revealing the true heart and soul of this iconic landmark. Afterward, we’ll also take a look at its external features and provide answers to common questions.
What is inside Belém Tower?
Stepping inside Belém Tower is like stepping back in time to Portugal’s Age of Discovery. On three floors plus a top terrace, connected by narrow spiral staircases, the picturesque fortress houses some interesting rooms.
Here’s a glimpse into what awaits you:
Ground Floor
- Gun Room: This large room, with vaulted ceiling and equipped with 16 cannons, served as the tower’s main defensive point. Imagine the booming sounds and the smell of gunpowder as ships approached. On the floor, you can see holes covered with thick iron bars that reveal the basement rooms that served as dungeons for political prisoners.
First Floor
- Governor’s Hall: Once the residence of the tower’s commander, this octagonal hall opens into a cistern. In the northeast and northwest corners there are bartizans from which warders were overlooking the surroundings. Imagine the echoes of past conversations as officials discussed strategies here.
Second Floor
- King’s Hall: This opulent chamber with its ribbed ceiling, the azulejos tiles depicting historical scenes and a small corner fireplace served as a reception and meeting space for royalty and dignitaries. Note the Manueline-style windows and impressive coffered ceiling. Through the holes that you can see in the ground, defenders could shoot at possible intruders.
Outside, there is an eye-catching loggia. The covered arcade features seven arches adorned with intricate decorations and ornaments. Picture Portuguese monarchs contemplating voyages of exploration while watching the mighty river stretch out to the horizon.
Third Floor
- Audience Hall: Imagine dignitaries, ambassadors, and explorers gathering here; the air thick with anticipation. Delicate carvings adorn the walls, and ornate windows frame views of the river. Here is another fireplace. You will also see a large relief with the royal coat of arms. The open-air terrace offers panoramic views of Lisbon, the Tagus River, and the surrounding landscape.
Fourth Floor
- Chapel of Nossa Senhora da Ajuda: Dedicated to Our Lady of Safe Homecoming, this small chapel offered solace to sailors embarking on perilous journeys. This sacred space resonates with devotion, its vaulted ceilings reaching toward the heavens. Light filters through stained-glass, casting colorful patterns on the stone floor.
Top Terrace
- Climb the winding staircase to the very top of the tower and be rewarded with breathtaking 360 degrees views of Lisbon again. Feel the salty breeze on your face and imagine the vast horizons that beckoned early explorers.
Things to Do inside Belém Tower with Kids
The Tower of Belem is a great place to visit with kids, as there are plenty of things to see and do for all ages. Here are a few suggestions:
- Kings & Princesses Quest: Encourage your kids to imagine themselves as valiant kings or elegant princesses exploring the tower. Create a scavenger hunt with clues hidden throughout, leading them to interesting details and historical facts.
- Storytelling Sessions: Bring Belém Tower’s stories to life! Let their imaginations run wild and invent their own stories inspired by the tower.
- Drawing & Creativity: Encourage your kids to capture their impressions of the castle through drawing or crafts. Set up a dedicated corner for them to unleash their artistic talents, using the views or details as inspiration.
> Remember
- Keep it Engaging: Break up the tour with rest periods, storytelling sessions, or interactive activities to maintain their interest.
- Respectful Exploration: Ensure your kids understand the importance of respecting the historical significance of the city castle.
- Create Memories: Capture their excitement and wonder through photos and videos, making the experience a cherished memory for years to come.
What is Special about the Exterior of Belém Tower?
If you look closely at the tower’s exterior, you will see an abundance of decorations, sculptures, gargoyles, columns, arches and domes.
- Particularly interesting are the numerous stone motifs that decorate the facade and religious symbols as well as exotic animals that Vasco de Gama and other explorers first encountered on their journeys into the wide world.
- Don’t forget to look at the rhino head on the northwest facade. What makes this figure so interesting is the fact that it is the first sculptural representation of this animal in all of Europe. The Indian rhinoceros that Afonso the Great brought back from his trip to India in 1515 served as a model.
- Discover the statue of Our Lady of Safe Homecoming, which looks out over the sea as the patron saint of sailors, because from here the Gamas, Afonsos and Heinrichs started their adventurous voyages of discovery into unknown worlds.
- See also Saint Vincent, the patron saint of Lisbon, the royal coat of arms, intricate ropes and knots, and the battlements decorated with the cross of the Order of Christ.
Belém Tower Tickets
Explore below our curated selection of Belém Tower tickets:
Lisboa Card: Access up to 38 Attractions + Public Transportation
19.4K+ Reviews
€31
Tiqets
This is an absolute must for anyone travelling in, or around Lisbon!
This combo deal includes a Belém Tower Ticket and entry to the Monument to the Discoveries museum, showcasing captivating exhibits on Lisbon’s maritime heritage. Opt for an upgrade to access the viewpoint atop the monument and enjoy an intriguing and informative film!
“When I got to the tower, the tickets were sold out! I went to Google and the first result was headout. I bought my tickets quickly and easily in the queue. Right away, I told other people who were arriving without tickets. From now on I’ll use it all the time.” Rafael, Brazil, Nov, 2023 [Source: Headout]
