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The
Torre
de Belém situated on the northern banks of the Rio Tejo estuary at
Lisbon
is one of Portugal's iconic structures. The tower, constructed in the
early 16th century from a white limestone was awarded a
UNESCO listing in 1983
alongside the Monastery of Hieronymites, which is sited a few minutes
away.
The
Torre
de Belém has served many functions through is 400
year history though was originally commissioned by King João II as a
defensive structure. |
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As you would expect from any structure
constructed in the early 16th century in Portugal, the
Torre
de Belém,
has a wealth of Manueline architectural features including Order of
Christ crosses, rope scrolls and fairytale-like turrets. The
Torre
de Belém, as it is commonly known, was actually named
the Torre de São Vicente. |
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Twisted
Rope Scrolls |
Order of
Christ Crosses |
Torre de
Belém |
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The
Torre
de Belém was originally designed
by Francisco de Arruda though he was not the only architect to work on
the tower, which is four stories high.
The
Torre
de Belém served as a fortress until 1558 though has
also been used as a prison, customs house as well as barracks for troops
during the Peninsular Wars.
The
Torre
de Belém is open to the public on a daily basis.
However anyone wishing to take a look inside the impressive structure
must navigate the wooden walkway above the waters of the Rio Tejo. |
Opening Times of
the Torre de Belém, Lisbon, Portugal
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October - April
10am - 5.30pm
May-September
10am - 6.30pm
Closed
Mondays, 1st
January, Easter Sunday, 1st May and 25th December
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Location Map of the Torre de Belém, Lisbon, Portugal
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Ver Torre de Belem, Lisbon, Portugal num mapa maior |
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