Belém Tower

Introduction

Belém Tower went up between 1514 and 1520 under Manuel I, part of a defensive line across the river from the Bom Sucesso fort. The architect Francisco de Arruda covered the exterior with rope carvings, armillary spheres and a stone rhinoceros, an animal Lisbon had only recently seen. Inside, a spiral staircase climbs through four floors to the roof terrace, with views over the river. Timed entry has applied since the tower reopened in May 2026, so book a slot rather than turning up. Take tram 15 and walk five minutes along the waterfront; the monastery is close by.