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Admire the monument's stunning architecture and its detailed sculptures. Explore the surrounding area for panoramic views of the Tagus River. Don't miss the opportunity to photograph the monument and the nearby landmarks like the Belém Tower and the Jerónimos Monastery.
The Monument to the Discoveries, located on Avenida Brasilia in the Belém district of Lisbon, Portugal, sits on the north bank of the Tagus River estuary. Built to commemorate the 500th anniversary of the death of Prince Henry the Navigator, the monument is a landmark building. Here, one can experience Portugal's former glory.
The Monument to the Discoveries is 52 meters high and is designed to resemble a sailing ship. Atop it is a statue of Prince Henry. Behind the statue of Prince Henry are 16 statues of influential Portuguese people during the Age of Discovery.
Climate: Mediterranean climate.
The Mediterranean climate is a type of climate characterized by hot, dry summers, mild and rainy winters, and alternating periods of heat and rain.
Best time to travel: All seasons
Recommended places to visit:
Jerónimos Monastery
Jerónimos Monastery, a Portuguese transliteration of the Monastery of St. Jerónimos, is a magnificent monastery located in the Belém district of Lisbon, Portugal. The monastery, a classic example of Manueline architecture, is one of Lisbon's most prominent historical sites. In 1983, the monastery and the nearby Belém Tower were designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Construction began in 1502 and took 50 years, making it a testament to the pinnacle of Portuguese art.
Belém Tower
The Belém Tower is one of Portugal's oldest buildings and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located in Lisbon, Portugal, it stands on the north bank of the Tagus River and is one of the two famous towers on the shores of Belém.
The Belém Tower has witnessed the glorious history of Portugal. Its unique geographical location and architectural style attract tourists from all over the world every year. During the Age of Exploration, the Belém Tower was the starting point for navigators.
The Belém Tower was built between 1514 and 1520 during the reign of King Manuel I. In 1983, it was listed as a World Heritage Site.
Recommended playing time: 1 hour
Summer (March to September) 10:00-19:00, closed on Mondays in March;
Winter (October to February): 10:00-18:00, no entry half an hour before closing time;
Closed on January 1, May 1, and December 25.
The Monument to the Discoverers commemorates Portugal's Age of Exploration. It honors the explorers, navigators, and other key figures who contributed to the Portuguese discoveries, including Vasco da Gama and Henry the Navigator. The monument stands as a tribute to Portugal's maritime history.
The Monument to the Discoverers is located in the Belém district of Lisbon, near the waterfront. You can reach it by tram (Line 15), bus, or walking from nearby attractions like the Jerónimos Monastery and Belém Tower.
The monument is accessible 24/7, but the best time to visit is during daylight hours, especially in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the views with softer lighting.
The Monument to the Discoverers is free to visit from the outside. However, if you wish to enter the monument's viewing platform, the ticket price is around €5. Tickets can be bought on-site or online in advance.
Booking tickets in advance is not mandatory, but it is recommended during peak tourist seasons to avoid long lines. You can book tickets online up to a few days before your visit.
You can explore the Monument to the Discoverers in 30 minutes to 1 hour, including taking in the views and snapping some photos. If you're visiting nearby attractions, you may want to allot more time for a leisurely walk around the area.
The most notable highlight is the monument's intricate sculptures, especially the figure of Henry the Navigator. The top platform also offers stunning views over the Belém area and the Tagus River.
Guided tours and audio guides are available in multiple languages, including English, Portuguese, Spanish, and French. Audio guides can be rented on-site or booked in advance.
The best viewpoints are from the top of the monument, where you can capture panoramic views of the river and surrounding landmarks. The front of the monument also offers great photo opportunities, especially during sunset.
Start by exploring the exterior of the monument and taking in the surrounding views. Then, visit the top viewing platform for a bird's-eye view of the area. Don't forget to explore the nearby gardens and walk along the riverfront.
Night visits are not available, but the monument is beautifully lit up at night. Special tours may be available during certain events or in combination with other nearby attractions.
The monument can get crowded, especially during weekends and peak tourist seasons. The least crowded times are typically early mornings or late afternoons on weekdays.
There are public toilets nearby, as well as several cafes and restaurants in the Belém district. For more substantial dining options, visit the area’s restaurants offering traditional Portuguese cuisine.
The monument’s exterior is accessible to all visitors, but the interior viewing platform has stairs, making it less suitable for visitors with mobility impairments. However, the surrounding park is easy to navigate for families and elderly visitors.
Both cash and card payments are accepted for entrance fees, gift shop purchases, and food. Mobile payments are also widely accepted in the area.
There are several cafes and restaurants in the Belém district, including the famous Pastéis de Belém bakery, known for its delicious Portuguese custard tarts. Nearby restaurants offer both local and international cuisine.
Yes, there are vegetarian and vegan options available at many restaurants in Belém, including cafes and eateries that offer Portuguese and international dishes. Halal options are also available in nearby restaurants.
There are several hotels near the Monument to the Discoverers, including the Altis Belém Hotel & Spa and Jerónimos 8, offering luxury accommodations with easy access to Belém’s attractions.
Nearby attractions include the Jerónimos Monastery, Belém Tower, and the Monument to the Discoverers. All of these are within walking distance and can easily be combined in a day trip.
There are souvenir shops near the monument, offering items such as postcards, books, and replicas of the monument. Traditional Portuguese souvenirs like cork products and ceramics are also available.
After visiting the Monument to the Discoverers, you can take the tram or bus to central Lisbon. Trams 15 and 18, as well as buses 728 and 727, provide easy access to downtown Lisbon.
