Well-steeped in history and rich in cultural heritage – appealing variety of historic buildings, museums and galleries, add to this lush green gardens and parks, excellent restaurants, shopping venues and a truly fantastic seafood-based cuisine, Lisbon never fails to keep visitors captive and enticed. Immersing yourself in the beauty of the mountainous region of Sintra, discovering the gorgeous beaches of Portugal’s ‘Sunny Coast’ on a relaxing afternoon excursion, or playing golf are only some of the best enjoyable moments you can have in Lisbon. And no matter this is your first visit to Lisbon or tenth, be sure to find something new to keep you entertained all day long and have a nice relaxing vacation.
Access to Lisbon is easy through great connections by road, sea, air and rail but like any other major city, Lisbon also presents visitors with risks to their valuables and lost luggage, cancellations or medical treatment; that is why to ensure your protection is an absolute must. While considering travel insurance compare the range of travel cover on offer to choose the right option that best suits your needs. For older travelers there is a travel insurance over 70 that will keep you away from stress, giving the confidence to travel knowing you are protected. Have a great trip, enjoying the peace of mind that comes with being insured.
Torre de Belem (Belem Tower)
No trip to Lisbon is complete without visiting the famous Torre de Belem – a UNESCO World Heritage Site ideally sitting at the edge of the Atlantic to safeguard the entrance of the city. This is one of the most renowned landmarks and iconic attractions in the city of Lisbon that is a truly fantastic piece of the Manueline architectural style (Portuguese late Gothic style) developed in the Age of Discoveries to commemorate Vasco da Gama’s expedition to India.
Originally, the Tower stood on a little island on the right side of the river but with the gradual southward creeping of the shore over the years it became moored to the bank itself. From the late 16th century up till the 19th, the tower served as a prison. In the 1840s, under the impulse of the romantic writer Almeida Garret, the Tower of Belem was restored and many ornaments and decorative elements were added to the building. And in 1910 it was declared a National Monument.
The Tower is 35 meters at height and has four stories and a terrace offering wonderful views of the surrounding landscape. On the fourth floor, visitors will find a magnificent chapel featuring a majestic Manueline rib vault decorated with the armillary sphere. The Belem area is also blessed with many museums, parks and gardens, there are even several cafes and a promenade. Torre de Belem is visible from the ships entering or leaving the harbor.
From top of the tower, visitors can enjoy magnificent panoramic views of both the Tagus River and the city. There is also a tour to the tower (for a fairly small admission fee), which will give you the chance to learn more about its history. It’s available every day, except Monday. Do not forget to take your cameras to take some photos of one of the much-photographed symbol of Portugal’s maritime glory.
