Belém Tower Size report

Belém Tower (Portuguese: Torre de Belém), or Torre de São Vicente, is a sixteenth-century fortification in Lisbon, built during the high tide of the Portuguese Renaissance and an outstanding representative of the Portuguese Manueline style, was listed as the world cultural inheritance in 1983.

Belém Tower has historically been used as a customs office, telegraph station, and even a lighthouse, and its storage rooms have been converted into a prison. In the era of great voyages, this corner of Lisbon was also the starting point for navigators. This historical relic witnessing the glory of Portugal, its unique architectural style, and its special geographical location have brought tourists worldwide. It is the most beautiful Lisbon scenic spot in the lens of tourists.

The Belém Tower was built in the 1500s and had more than 500 years of history. Although it is a tower, it is more like a small blockhouse guarding the river bank. It stands on the north bank of the Tejo River, and is one of the two famous towers on the bank of Belém.

Belém Tower Size And Structure

The Belém Tower is a five-story fortification located in the Manueline style. It was built between 1514 and 1520 during the reign of Manuel I to defend the port in the Belém district and the nearby St. Jerome monastery. It was also to commemorate Lisbon's patron saint, St. Vincent. It was built on the site of the original "Grandeno." The original site of "Grandeno" had suffered a fire, so the wooden structure was replaced by stone. The Belém Tower is divided into two parts: the tower has four vaulted rooms, and the ramparts have many forts. Over time, the tower has undergone numerous transformations. In the 19th century, the tower retained its medieval style, although it was much narrower, while the fortress was remodeled and more modern.

It has become a museum; that year's cannons and forts are also displayed on the first floor. The entire tower body is made of limestone and shaped like a bunker; it is the most gorgeous and elegant building among the numerous monuments in Lisbon. Walking over the small bridge to the Belém Tower's entry, you can't help but notice the tower's intricate and distinctive design. When the tide is high, the tower on the top is like a fairyland floating on the river.

Measurements of Belém Tower

Belém Towe consists of a quadrangular tower similar to a medieval palace and a polygonal bastion. The building was made of limestone and consisted of a bastion and a four-story tower 12 meters wide and 30 meters high. The tower's interior, along with the round stairs at the northern end, has two adjacent halls with vaulted ceilings supported on vaulted arches, four storage spaces, and sanitary rooms.

Conclusion

Belém Tower is an ancient building with a history of nearly 500 years. It is a famous landmark in Portugal and a symbol of Lisbon. This 16th-century tower is a must-see when you travel to the city. Visitors can look at the Manueline towers that have helped protect the city for centuries and admire its elaborate architecture, adorned with sculptures, columns, arches, gargoyles, and domes. Belém Tower is a testimony to the adventurous voyage of pirates, the starting point of the great geographical discovery of Portugal, and has great historical significance.