Belem Tower
Dimensions:
- Length: 135.0 mm (5.3 inches)
- Width: 98.7 mm (3.9 inches)
- Height: 115.9 mm (4.6 inches)
The Belém Tower, situated along the Tagus River in Lisbon, Portugal, is an iconic symbol of the country’s Age of Discovery. Constructed between 1514 and 1520, this fortress served as both a ceremonial gateway to the city and a defensive structure protecting the harbor.
Designed by Francisco de Arruda, the tower is a stunning example of the Manueline architectural style, which blends Gothic, Renaissance, and Moorish influences. Its intricate stonework features maritime motifs, armillary spheres, and twisted rope carvings, reflecting Portugal’s maritime heritage and global explorations.
Over its 500-year history, the Belém Tower has transitioned from a fortress to a customs house, a prison, and a lighthouse. Today, it stands as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a beloved monument, embodying the spirit of Portugal’s adventurous past and its enduring connection to the sea.