Lisboa monuments

Spring is an excellent time to visit Lisboa. Longer days, refreshing spring breeze and mild temperatures tempt visitors to enjoy a relaxed walk through Lisboa and discover its most iconic monuments that reflect the city's history.

The monumental square of Terreiro do Paço, in the historic centre, is the ideal starting point for discovering the Portuguese capital. Before starting the tour, we recommend a visit to the Lisboa Story Centre Memorias da Cidade, located in the East Wing of the public square. Here you will learn the most important myths, events and facts of Lisboa's history, along a 60 minute visit that illustrates, using the very latest technology, the tragedies and glories of one of the oldest cities in the world.

After this visit, you will no doubt be ready to see the city and its defining moments with different eyes.

Begin your tour at São Jorge Castle, located on one of the highest hills in the city. Captured from the Moors in 1147 by Dom Afonso Henriques, the first king of Portugal, São Jorge Castle is a prime witness of Lisboa's history and is one of its most cherished and visited monuments. Visitable across its entire perimeter, the fortification still boasts eleven towers and features some architectural elements characteristic of military fortifications from the Islamic period. Recent archaeological investigations have uncovered some constructions from the past, which can be visited at the Archaeological Exhibit Centre. Here the museum's collection of artifacts sheds light on everyday life in ancient times.

Taking a leap forward in time, head to the glorious medieval pageantry of 16th century Lisboa, during the era of the Discoveries. It is still visible today in the architecture of the period represented by monuments such as Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery, built in the historic district of Belém. Comissioned by Dom Manuel I, Belém Tower and Jeronimos Monastery are landmarks of the beauty of the Manueline architectural style, and classified by UNESCO as World Heritage Sites. Despite the exuberance of its decor, Belém Tower also played a military role, acting as a fortification to defend the Tagus river estuary against hostile ships. Similarly Jeronimos Monastery is the most important monastic architecture from the 16th century in Portugal and one of the leading church halls in Europe.

Awe inspiring, exuberant and majestic are just a few adjectives to describe these two city landmarks that keep alive the memory of the Portuguese Golden Era, which began on the shores of Belém, and which the Discoveries Monument, erected on the banks of the Tagus, pays tribute to today. Built in the shape of a caravel, the monument has as its main focal point the 9 meter tall figure of Prince Henry the Navigator, accompanied by 16 figures on each side, representing a synthesis of historical characters connected directly or indirectly to the Portuguese Discoveries. Inside, visitors can learn more about the adventures of the Portuguese maritime discoveries. A must visit site for anyone passing through Lisboa, the Discoveries Monument also offers one of the best panoramic views of the capital from a belvedere built 50 metres high.

And finally to replenish your energies after this fantastic "journey in time", there is no better way to enjoy Lisboa's magnificent light than sitting by the river, enjoying the delicious taste of the famous "Pastel de Belém" custard pastry.