Belem Tower Inside

Belem Tower Inside | A Journey Through History and Architecture

Explore the beautiful architecture of Belem Tower interior to discover the grandeur of this 16th-century UNESCO World Heritage site. Serving as a symbol of Portugal’s global expansion during the Age of Exploration in the 15th and 16th centuries, Belem Tower served as an important structure in the defence system for Lisbon city. With a valid admission ticket to Belem Tower inside, you can see the magnificent design and structures that depict Manueline architecture. 


You can see an interesting blend of Renaissance style and Gothic designs on its facade and external columns. Inside the tower, you can see a historical artillery on the ground floor that is connected to a beautiful open terrace by a gorgeous staircase. On your way to the rooftop, you can admire the Renaissance-style balconies in the King’s Chamber. Other important places to discover inside are the Audience Chamber and the Governer’s Chamber. After navigating Belem tower inside, you reach the rooftop terrace and capture glorious views of River Tagus. 

Things To See Inside the Belem Tower

Stairway

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. 


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Ground Floor

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. 

Governor’s Chamber

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. 

King’s Chamber

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.

Rooftop

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

Constructed with the purpose of enhancing the defence of Lisbon port, Belem Tower was built between 1514 and 1520 during the reign of King Manuel I of Portugal. At the beginning of the 16th century, Belem Tower also served as a customs and health checkpoint for all the visitors arriving in Lisbon. Located on the northern banks of River Tagus, Belem Tower has earned a spot among revered UNESCO World Heritage sites in Portugal. 


Belem Tower, also called The Tower of St. Vincent was designed by architect Francisco de Arruda. The 98-foot tower reflects the transitional period in Portuguese architectural design as it blends a medieval military structure (tower) with a Renaissance-type design (bastion). It is an example of the Manueline style of architecture and boasts many maritime motifs. You can see symbols linked to the Order of Christ which reflects the connection of this Tower to seafaring and exploration during the 16th century.

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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. 

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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

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