Lisbon Photo Gallery - Belem's Attractions

The Tagus river meets the sea at Belem, and it was from here the Portuguese caravels set out to explore the world. Portugal kicked off the Age of Discovery in the 15th century, when Prince Henry the Navigator financed many sea expeditions in search for trade, riches, and China. They explored the African coast and eventually rounded the southern tip to reach India, Indonesia, and China. Christopher Columbus had actually lived in Lisbon but was rejected by the Portuguese to sail west for China, but got backing from Spain instead.

As riches from the bustling trade came, so did royalty and the wealthy class. Today, this part of town has a lot of monuments and museums worth exploring, and is a day trip in its own right.

The Mosteiro dos Jerónimos was built in the 16th century to celebrate Vasco da Gama's India voyage and to thank the Virgin Mary. The architecture mixes Gothic, Moorish, and Renaissance styles, and received funding from the spice trade's taxes to help construct this massive church.

Opened in 1960, Padrao dos Descobrimentos is a memorial to the Age of Discovery, with famous explorers along the ramps led by Henry the Navigator.

Be sure to go up the observation area to enjoy the view.

Torre de Belem also celebrates the Age of Discovery, but is far older. Built in the early 16th century, it stands near the spot where explorers sailed out to sea. It contains both Gothic and Moorish styles with Manuel I's coat of arms along with many intricate details.

The Monumento aos Combatentes do Ultramar