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Belem Tower Inside | A Journey Through History and Architecture
Things To See Inside the Belem Tower
One of the top highlights of Belem Tower's interior is the single and steep staircase that connects all the floors. You can explore various sections inside the tower by climbing on this staircase and then going to the top floor which boasts an open terrace. From the terrace, you can capture glistening views of the riverfront. Since the staircase is quite narrow, you have to follow a red-green traffic light system to ascend or descend on it.
Read More: History Of Belem Tower
While exploring the Belem Tower interior, the first place you’ll come across is the ground floor. This place was used for storing the artillery in the tower and keeping the cannons which aimed across the river through the small window openings. You can still see 15th and 16th century guns here along with the magazine which was used to store gunpowder. The dungeons below this part of the tower was later converted into a prison until 1830.
The next place is the Governor’s Chamber, also called the Sala do Governador. This place served as the office of Governor of the Tower for nine successive governors. The Governor was the on-site royal representative with administrative, judicial, and military authority. You can discover the narrow tunnels on both ends of this floor which provide access to the watchtowers. Make sure, you click pictures of the stone sculpture of a rhino’s head, symbolising the arrival of the first rhinos in Portugal from India.
Continue your exploration on to the next floor which is the King’s Chamber, also known as the Sala dos Reis. It was believed that the royals enjoyed watching the ships on River Tagus from this tower. It also boasts a Renaissance-styled balcony and sweeping views of the lower terrace. There are three additional balconies on this floor from where you can see statues of St. Vincent, the patron of the tower and Lisbon, and the Archangel Michael.
After climbing the top floor of the tower, brace yourself to be mesmerised by the awe-inspiring views of River Tagus. You can also see the waterfront and the surrounding neighbourhood from the top. Bring your cameras to click memorable pictures of the Statue of Christ the Redeemer and the April 25 bridge which are visible from the rooftop.
Tips To Visit Belem Tower
- If you wish to avoid crowds, try planning your visit to Belem Tower inside during weekdays and not on weekends and public holidays.
- The official timings of Belem Tower is 10:00 AM to 6:30 PM. If you intend to explore the outdoors of the building and capture some photographs, try to get there 1 hour earlier.
- Ensure that you reach early in the morning or at the end of the day before last entry to skip the crowds.
- The tower remains open from Tuesday to Sunday and remains closed on Mondays.
- You can purchase a ticket online in advance with the option of cancellation if you are unsure about the date of your visit.
- If you want to continue your explorations, combine visit to nearby attractions like Jeronimos Monastery along with Belem Tower.
- For the most picturesque views of the sunset, plan your visit during late afternoon and make sure you carry your cameras.
- You can also explore a park area surrounding the tower where you can enjoy a picnic or take a casual stroll with your loved ones after exploring Belem Tower interior.
Design & Purpose Of Belem Tower
FAQs
Is it worth going inside the Belem Tower?
Yes. It is worth exploring Belem Tower's interior to see its majestic architecture on the stairway, the Governor’s chamber and the King’s chamber. Once you are inside, you can also go to the top floor for awe-inspiring views of River Tagus.
What is inside Belem Tower?
While exploring Belem tower inside, you can see various sections like halls for meetings and ceremonies, a chapel, a gun room, a prison, and restrooms. After climbing the ornately designed staircase, you can also see the terrace of Belem Tower.
Why is Belem Tower so famous?
It is a famous UNESCO world heritage site which is a symbol of the Portuguese Age of Discovery in the 15th century. Belem Tower interiors attract art-buffs to admire the beautiful spiral staircase and the ornate architecture in the rooms and halls.
Is it free to enter inside the Belem Tower?
No. It is not free to enter the Belem Tower. You have to purchase a valid ticket for INR 780 for adults while children below the age of 14 can enter Belem Tower inside for free.
Click Here To Book: Belem Tower Tickets
Can you take pictures inside the Belem Tower?
Yes. You can take pictures of the Belem tower inside. However, make sure that you do not use flash as it can hamper the experience of other visitors.
Read More: Restaurants Around Belem Tower
About Belem Tower
Visitor's Guide