Intern Adventures: Belém

Belém is an area in southwestern Lisboa and home to many monuments, statues and landmarks.

Torre de Belém Garden

The Padrão dos Descobrimentos (Monument to the discoveries) is a 52 metre tall structure situated on the northern bank of the Tagus built to commemorate the 500th anniversary of the death of Henry the Navigator who was responsible for the development of trade and discovery in Portugal. The structure itself is crafted from steel and cement whereas the 33 statues are made from plaster and tow. Being just a 10 minute walk (and on the way to other locations) the Padrão dos Descobrimentos is a must see for all visitors to Belém.

Padrão dos Descobrimentos

The Torre de Belém (Belém Tower) is another popular landmark in the area of Belém. In 1983 the tower was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was created out of limestone in 1514 for the purpose of military fortification.

Torre de Belém

The original Pastel de Nada was created in Belém using a secret recipe that to this day is still only used by Pastéis de Belém.

In 2007 the Portuguese Ministry of Culture announced the 7 wonders of Portugal, 2 of which (Torre de Belém and Jerónimos Monastery) are located in Belém.

Jerónimos Monastery

Belém is also host to numerous museums including the ‘Berardo Collection Museum’, ‘National Museum Of Coaches’,’Maat’ and the ‘Maritime Museum’.

Belém also has a weekly dressage performance, a palace, a culture centre and many statues.

Our interns recommend a day trip (or two) to Belém during your stay in Lisboa.