Lisbon's Treasures: A Journey Through Time at UNESCO World Heritage Sites

The Resilient Landmarks of Lisbon

In the wake of the catastrophic earthquake of 1755, which was followed by devastating fires and a tsunami, Lisbon was left in ruins, with an estimated 85% of the city destroyed. However, the Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery stood resilient amidst the chaos, serving as a testament to the city's enduring spirit.

Belém Tower: A Sentinel by the Sea

The 'Torre de Belém,' a stunning example of Portuguese Late Gothic architecture, also known as Manueline style, was completed in 1521. Constructed on a small island at the mouth of the Tagus River, this limestone tower rises over 30 meters, presenting a gleaming white beacon to those approaching from the sea. Originally designed as a fortification to guard against invasions, it now welcomes visitors as a grand entrance to Lisbon. The tower is also known as the 'Tower of St Vincent,' honoring Lisbon's patron saint.

Belém, the neighborhood where the tower is located, is a magnet for tourists due to its historical significance and beautiful old buildings. It is a place where the legacy of Portugal's 'Age of Discovery' comes alive, echoing the adventures of legendary explorers like Prince Henry the Navigator, Bartholomeu Diaz, Ferdinand Magellan, and Vasco da Gama.

Jerónimos Monastery: A Monument to Maritime Glory

Even more renowned than the tower, the Jerónimos Monastery is a masterpiece of Manueline architecture. In the mid-15th century, Henry the Navigator commissioned the construction of the 'Ermida do Restelo' hermitage on this site, which became a place of prayer for seafarers embarking on perilous voyages. It was here that Vasco da Gama and his crew spent the night in prayer before their historic journey to India in 1497.

Upon da Gama's triumphant return, construction began on the monastery to celebrate his achievements. Despite various interruptions, the project took 50 years to complete. Today, the limestone structure houses:

• Ornate portals
• The Monastery of St. Jerome
• The Church of Santa Maria
• The tombs of royalty and Vasco da Gama
• The National Archaeological Museum (Museu Nacional de Arqueologia)

For those captivated by the Age of Discovery, the Maritime Museum, also located within the monastery, is an essential visit. It boasts an impressive collection of over 17,000 items, including replicas and models of the ships that carried the explorers, as well as one of the world's largest collections of 16th-century maps and map replicas.

A short distance from the monastery stands the Discoveries Monument, erected to honor Prince Henry the Navigator over 500 years after his death. Shaped like a ship, it features a wealth of information, a film, and tributes to the great navigators and figures associated with the voyages of discovery.

Finding Your Haven in Lisbon

While exploring these historical sites, visitors can find comfort in a Lisbon cheap hotel that offers relaxation after a day of discovery. Staying in the city center is advisable for easy access to Lisbon's reliable transport system, which connects you to all the popular tourist attractions.

Lisbon's Historical Significance in Numbers

• UNESCO designated the Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery as World Heritage Sites in 1983.
• The 1755 Lisbon earthquake is estimated to have had a magnitude of 8.5–9.0.
• The Maritime Museum in Lisbon contains over 17,000 items related to the Age of Discovery.

These figures highlight the importance of Lisbon's historical sites, not only as cultural landmarks but also as repositories of a significant era in global exploration. While many are aware of the aesthetic and historical value of these sites, few may know that the Maritime Museum's collection is one of the most extensive of its kind in the world, offering a unique insight into Portugal's maritime heritage.