What monuments in Lisbon you can’t miss
If you feel like embarking on a journey to an international destination close to Spain, we invite you to discover the beauty of Lisbon. A city that surprises visitors with its cuisine, history, architecture, and atmosphere. The most important monuments of the capital of Portugal deserve special attention during your itinerary. Which buildings are most admired by tourists? Discover a guide to explore the historic places in Lisbon!
Belém Tower and the Jerónimos Monastery
Belém Tower offers one of the most spectacular views of the surroundings. Its construction was completed around the year 1519. It is a work that has received notable recognition from UNESCO: keep in mind that 40 years ago, it was declared a Cultural Heritage. If you visit Lisbon, you will have the opportunity to admire a creation that originally had a defensive function.
Well, Belém Tower is a reference point that can guide you to another of the most relevant stops on the itinerary: the Jerónimos Monastery, designed by the architect Diogo de Boitaca, boasts a distinctive Manueline style. A building that houses a beautiful church and a cloister with elegant ornamentation. It is worth noting that the opening hours vary slightly depending on the time of year. During the period from October to April, visits take place from 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM. If you decide to travel during spring or summer, remember that the visiting hours are slightly extended, concluding about an hour later (compared to the indicated times). If you wish to visit Belém Tower and its surroundings, you can take a bus to the area.
Saint George’s Castle
Saint George’s Castle is located in the Alfama neighborhood. If you want to discover the essence of Lisbon, stroll through the streets of the area. The castle, recognized as a National Monument, is located in the upper part of this historic neighborhood. Therefore, its perspective offers a spectacular panoramic view of the surroundings. Its initial construction dates back to the 5th century. But it has undergone various modifications throughout its history. The ensemble of the building stands out for the majesty of its eleven towers. If you prefer to avoid waiting in line at the ticket office, purchase your ticket online and wear comfortable footwear to enjoy the itinerary even more. Keep in mind that there are also stairs along the way.
The visiting period is quite extensive between the months of March and October, extending from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM. In contrast, the end of the day shifts to 7:00 PM from November to February. If you want to plan a visit to the castle, check its website for the opening hours on the date you plan your getaway. Organize your visit to the castle on a day when you also explore other points located in the center of Lisbon.
Monument to the Discoveries and the 25th of April Bridge
This monument is located in the vicinity of another of the points we mentioned earlier: Belém Tower. It stands out for its great height and features the beautiful image of a caravel. Its construction has significant historical significance, commemorating the 500th anniversary of the death of Henry the Navigator. More specifically, the 500th anniversary of the death of the Portuguese prince.
During your trip to Lisbon, you will experience unforgettable moments. Many images of the city will be etched in your memory. The 25th of April Bridge deserves special mention. What makes it special? First, its suspension structure. Secondly, it is remarkable for its vast dimensions, with a length exceeding two kilometers. The Belém district is one of the most admired in the city and encompasses some of the gems we mentioned in the article: Belém Tower, the Jerónimos Monastery, and the Monument to the Discoveries. So, during your stroll through the streets of the area, you can observe the perspective of the bridge.
Other Monuments in Lisbon
During your visit to the city, you will have the opportunity to discover other points of interest. The National Pantheon, with its Baroque style, was originally a church. One of the most admired works in the city is directly related to transportation: the Santa Justa Elevator is a legendary elevator that attracts many visitors each year. The Tile Museum, housed in the Convento da Madre de Deus, offers a visual and historical journey through this beautiful artistic proposal.
Therefore, if you want to enjoy a trip to a destination with great artistic, cultural, and architectural richness, discover Lisbon. Walk its streets, be captivated by the magic of its neighborhoods, and experience unforgettable moments such as sailing on the Tagus River. In short, you can also take a boat ride in an unforgettable setting.
