Belém Tower

The Belém Tower is a fortress built between 1514 and 1519 to protect the entrance to Lisbon alongside other towers (no longer in existence today).

It is now one of Lisbon's most iconic monuments, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its historical significance.

In addition to guarding the entrance to Lisbon, it served other purposes — among them, acting as the departure point for many Portuguese expeditions during the Age of Discovery.

Beautiful and photogenic, it was built at the mouth of the Tagus river.

Its stone facade features details with Islamic and Oriental influences, characteristic of the Manueline style, meaning it is adorned with many maritime motifs and oceanic references.

The stonework is carved with nationalist motifs, elements inspired by nature, the Age of Discovery, and religion.

Notable Features 

The Belém Tower was dedicated to Saint Vincent (patron saint of Lisbon), and while it was being built, the Jerónimos Monasterywas already rising just a short distance away. Ever since, the two have been linked by their location and architectural style.

Francisco de Arruda, the architect behind the project, had previously worked on fortresses in Morocco, which is why you can also notice Moorish influences in the structure.

Over time, the fortification transitioned from a defensive function to serving as a customs post and, during the reign of Philip I of Spain, as a prison.

Visiting the Interior

It is possible to enter Belém Tower. Its rooms make up a museum where you can travel back more than 500 years in history of Portugal.

Inside you will find the Governor's Room, the King's Room, the Audience Chamber, a chapel, and a terrace with views over Belém and the river.

The museum charges an admission fee, but admiring it from the outside is free — and we highly recommend it.

Planning your visit to the tower

This important tower from the Age of Discovery is one of the top sights to see in Lisbon, and it sits in one of Lisbon's best-known neighborhoods: Belém.

Nearby you will find several other important landmarks, including the Jerónimos Monastery and the Monument to the Discoveries, both unmissable on your visit.

You will also find major museums such as the Berardo Museum of Contemporary Art and the Maritime Museum.

After so much walking and sightseeing, you'll be hungry and ready to try the irresistible, world-famous Pastéis de Belém.

If you visit 3–4 of these places, you'll fill practically an entire day of your trip to Lisbon.

Prices

Standard ticket €6 / €9 with fast-track entry (buy online)

Combined ticket with Jerónimos Monastery €12

Free with the Lisboa Card / Free for children under 12 / 50% discount for those over 65 / Free on Sundays and public holidays for residents of Portugal

Address

Torre de Belém, 2715-311, Portugal

To get to Belém Tower, you can take Tram 15 from Praça do Comércio in central Lisbon, or the train to Belém from Cais do Sodré station, or buses 714, 727, 729, and 751

Opening Hours

October–April 10:00–17:00; May–September 10:00–18:30, Tuesday to Sunday