Portugal's golden age of exploration and the voyages of Vasco de Gama inspired and funded the construction of Jeronimos Monastery from 1496 to 1600. The monastery stands as the finest example of the Manueline architecture unique to Portugal. Gothic arches combine with intricate stonework featuring Christian symbols, such as the cross of the order of Christ, woven together with maritime symbols such as anchors and shells. The Jeronimos also holds the tombs of Vasco da Gama, King Manuel I and other Portuguese royalty. The monastery is a UNESCO World Heritage Monument.
Mosteiro dos Jeronimos
Praca do Imperio
1400-206 Lisboa
+351-21-362-00-34
mosteirojeronimos.pt/english/index.html
King Manuel I built the Tower of Belem in 1520 as the third and final fortress required to fully defend Lisbon from attack by sea. The tower is located on the banks of the Tagus River near the Jeronimos Monastery. The ornate medieval-style tower features delicate stonework with Moorish decorations. Details such as the carved rhinoceros head emphasize Portugal's world conquests. UNESCO declared the Tower of Belem a World Heritage Cultural Site in 1983.
Mosteiro dos Jeronimos (Torre de Belém)
Praca do Imperio
1400-206 Lisboa
+351-21-362-00-34
mosteirojeronimos.pt/english/web_torre_belem/frameset.html
The Discoveries Monument overlooking the Tagus River honors Portugal's age of exploration. Prince Henry the Navigator stands at the bow of the caravel-shaped monument followed by Vasco de Gama, Ferdinand Magellan and other famous figures from Portugal's history. A world map etched on the walkway details their world exploration. A history exhibit is open daily. The monument is illuminated and accessible in the evening also.
Padrao dos Descobrimentos
Lisboa
+351-213-031-950
padraodescobrimentos.egeac.pt
Wind through the twisting, cobbled streets of Alfama to the castle of St. George. The castle was constructed in the 5th century by the Visigoths and was used by the Moors, who occupied Portugal in the 9th century. Knights returning from the crusades helped King Afonso Henrique retake it from the Moors in 1147.
Visitors can tour the castle's rampart and 10 old towers and see a multimedia history exhibit. The castle commands some impressive views of Lisbon.
Castelo de Sao Jorge
Lisboa
+351-218-800-620
castelosaojorge.egeac.pt
One of Lisbon's most beautiful churches is Santa Engracia, a baroque-style building that took 284 years to build. In fact, in Portugal "the works of Santa Engracia" is synonymous with an endless task. The church, known as Portugal's National Pantheon, was completed in 1966. The building is laid out in the shape of a Greek cross and the interior features impressive slabs of marble. The view from the top provides spectacular views of Lisbon and the sea.
Turismo de Lisboa
Visitors & Convention Bureau
Rua do Arsenal, 15
1100-038 Lisboa
+351-210-312-700
visitlisboa.com/GeneralInfo.aspx
