Five centuries after it was built, it still holds secrets that are worth knowing .
Did you know that in addition to being a defense post, it was also a dungeon and a lighthouse?
And that one of his most important sculptures represents a.. rhinoceros?
Discover these and other curiosities, watch our video and, of course, make sure you pay this incredible place a visit.
The hidden secrets of the Belém Tower
1 – Icon of Lisbon and Portugal
Everyone knows it as Torre de Belém, but the official name is Torre de São Vicente de Belém. The name is a tribute to the city’s patron saint.
2 – The Belém Tower was built in the early 16th century
Built on a basalt islet next to the old Restelo beach between 1514 and 1520, it replaced a gunboat that had existed on the site.
3 – Its architect was Francisco de Arruda
It seems to have been under the guidance of Diogo Boitaca, who at the time was also directing the work on the nearby Jerónimos Monastery.
4 – In the beginning, the Belém Tower was an important bastion of defense
It was the first defensive line on the River Tagus, with 16 cannons, but from the Philippine era onwards it was used as a dungeon.
The prisoners were on the lower floor, which was so low that it was impossible for an adult to stand. It also served as a telegraph signaling post and even a lighthouse.
5 – UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1983
It is a jewel of Manueline architecture, with various decorative elements associated with the Discoveries, such as the royal arms, the ropes, the armillary sphere and the Cross of the Order of Christ.
6 – There is an image of a rhinoceros carved on the outside
This is the first representation of this animal found in Europe. It was probably inspired by the rhinoceros that an Indian king gave to King Manuel I in 1514.
7 – Another image with a lot of symbolism is that of Our Lady of Good Success
Also known as the Virgin of Restelo, who was believed to protect sailors. There are two more sculpted saints on the north façade: São Miguel and São Vicente.
8 – The Belém Tower is divided into five main areas
These are the Governor’s Room (with a fireplace and a balcony overlooking the Tagus), the Audience Room, the Kings’ Room, the Chapel and the Tower Terrace.
9 – Don’t miss the top floor
Only here will you be able to admire the incredible views of the Tagus, the Belém area and the South Bank.
10 – The Belém Tower is open to visitors
This heritage monument can be visited from Tuesday to Sunday at two different times:
- October to April (10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.; last entry at 5 p.m.)
- May to September (10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.; last entry at 6 p.m.)
In addition to Mondays, it is also closed on January 1st, Easter Sunday, May 1st and December 25th.
If you haven’t got a ticket to visit the Belém Tower yet, get yours at Fever.