What to see

Although it was primarily built to serve the purpose of a fortress, the tower has a luxurious exterior with unique limestone ornaments and sculpted balconies which indicate the wealth Portugal experienced during the Manueline era. Belem tower has a six sided base with turrets (Moorish style) at each corner and a battery of cannons above a cross-vaulted basement which was used as a prison. Another point of interest is the terrace which is located just above the basement is graced by a statue of Mary and a child which is believed to protect seafarers.

And then there is the armoury, and the private residences are located on the upper floors of the tower. But the most interesting part of the tower is arguably the second floor which houses the sculpted columns and balconies of the Royal Residences. Finally, when you reach the upper floor of Belem Tower you will understand why this was such an important and iconic structure in Belem, for the unrivalled views of the town and Tagus River are worth every step of the climb.