Today we woke up and decided to take a tour to Belem.
Our first stop was at the beautiful Mosteiro dos Jeronimos.
It is one of the most iconic landmarks in Lisbon. It is a masterpiece of Manueline architecture, a unique Portuguese style that blends late Gothic and Renaissance elements with maritime and natural motifs.
Construction begun in 1501 during the reign of King Manuel I, the monastery was built to honor Portugal’s Age of Discoveries, particularly Vasco da Gama's successful voyage to India. The construction was financed by a "pepper tax," a levy on spices brought back from India and the East.
It took almost 100 years to complete, with contributions from several architects, including Diogo de Boitaca and João de Castilho.
The cloisters are considered among the most beautiful in Europe, with ornate arches and detailed stonework.
The monastery was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983, along with the nearby Belém Tower.
It houses the tombs of prominent figures, including Vasco da Gama, Luís de Camões (Portugal’s national poet), and King Manuel I.
The monastery now serves as a museum and is a major tourist attraction. It houses the Maritime Museum and the National Archaeology Museum.
The Belem Tower is a historic landmark located in Lisbon. Built in the early 16th century (1514-1519) during the reign of King Manuel I, it is a masterpiece of the Manueline architectural style, which incorporates maritime elements and ornate details.
Originally constructed as a defensive fortress to protect the entrance to the Tagus River and the port of Lisbon, it also served as a ceremonial gateway to the city.
It was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983, alongside the nearby Jerónimos Monastery, due to its historical and architectural significance.
The tower features intricate stonework, maritime motifs (like ropes, anchors, and armillary spheres), and decorative battlements.
The tower is a symbol of Portugal's Age of Discoveries and its rich maritime history, as it was built during the height of Portuguese exploration.
Today, the Torre de Belém is a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors panoramic views of the Tagus River and a glimpse into Portugal's storied past.
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