Explore the historical part of Belem in an unforgettable tuktuk experience with us
The District of Discoveries
Belém is where the famous Portuguese explorers (like Vasco da Gama) set sail to find India and Brazil. It’s the most “heroic” part of the city.
1. Jerónimos Monastery
This is a massive, stunning building made of white stone.
The History: It was built using the “pepper tax”—money made from the spice trade.
The Style: It’s in a style called Manueline, which uses stone carvings of sea shells, anchors, and ropes to show off Portugal’s love for the ocean.
Famous Resident: The explorer Vasco da Gama is buried inside.
2. Belém Tower (The Fortress)
This little castle sits right in the water.
The Job: It was a lighthouse and a fortress built to protect Lisbon from pirates and enemy ships.
The Symbol: For sailors, this was the last thing they saw when leaving home and the first thing they saw when returning from years at sea.
3. Padrão dos Descobrimentos (Monument to the Discoveries)
This giant stone monument is shaped like the prow of a ship sticking out over the river.
The Figures: You’ll see 33 famous people from Portuguese history carved on the sides, led by Prince Henry the Navigator.
The Map: Don’t forget to look at the ground! There is a giant marble map showing exactly where and when the Portuguese “discovered” different parts of the world.
4. MAAT Museum & 25th of April Bridge
As you zip along the river, you’ll see the MAAT, a very modern museum that looks like a white wave. Right next to it is the giant red bridge—it looks exactly like the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco because the same company built it!
5. Pastéis de Belém (The “Must-Eat” Stop)
You cannot visit Belém without stopping here.
The Secret: This bakery has been using a secret recipe from the monks of the monastery since 1837.
The Taste: It’s a warm custard tart with a crispy, flaky crust. Sprinkle it with cinnamon and sugar—it’s the most famous snack in Portugal.