THE BEST OF BELÉM – LISBON’S WORLD HERITAGE
The Tower of Belém - this emblematic “chess piece” is the most photographed tourist attraction in Lisbon. Once situated in the middle of the river, the tower was originally built in the 16th century not only for defence purposes but also to show the wealth and power of King Manuel I. Your challenge will be to discover the first image of a rhinoceros in Europe which is hidden within the architecture of the tower.
The Discoveries Monument – built in 1960, this wonderful “ship” sailing out to sea is flanked by 32 7-metre high statues of the most important figures of the Portuguese Discoveries. From poets to princes, cartographers to captains, the story of the Discoveries unfolds in living stone. Who is the lady wearing a crown?
The Jeronimos Monastery – together with the Tower of Belém, these buildings gained World Heritage Status from UNESCO in 1984. The flamboyant style of Manueline architecture, unique to Portugal, almost overpowers the visitor. The south portal, covered in statues, is a work of art in itself. Inside the monastery, the vaulting in the church soars above, almost ethereal in its delicate stonework.
The Belém Pastry Shop – For over one hundred years, this café has been the centre of life for locals and tourists alike. The famous Pastel de Nata was created here. Only in this café are they called the Pastel de Belém. Made from incredibly light flaky pastry with a filling of eggs, sugar and the secret ingredient, they are guaranteed to melt in your mouth. Don’t waste time by ordering just one – two is the norm!
DURATION: 3-4 hours, depending on coffee stops, photograph stops and the pace of the slowest walker.
COST: . €120. per private tour. (Entrance fees not included)
BOOKINGS: Eva Sanches. Email: [email protected]. Mobile: (+ 351) 917 300 345.
Eva is a qualified Tour Guide who was born in Scotland and has lived in Cascais for over 40 years.
The Tower of Belém - this emblematic “chess piece” is the most photographed tourist attraction in Lisbon. Once situated in the middle of the river, the tower was originally built in the 16th century not only for defence purposes but also to show the wealth and power of King Manuel I. Your challenge will be to discover the first image of a rhinoceros in Europe which is hidden within the architecture of the tower.
The Discoveries Monument – built in 1960, this wonderful “ship” sailing out to sea is flanked by 32 7-metre high statues of the most important figures of the Portuguese Discoveries. From poets to princes, cartographers to captains, the story of the Discoveries unfolds in living stone. Who is the lady wearing a crown?
The Jeronimos Monastery – together with the Tower of Belém, these buildings gained World Heritage Status from UNESCO in 1984. The flamboyant style of Manueline architecture, unique to Portugal, almost overpowers the visitor. The south portal, covered in statues, is a work of art in itself. Inside the monastery, the vaulting in the church soars above, almost ethereal in its delicate stonework.
The Belém Pastry Shop – For over one hundred years, this café has been the centre of life for locals and tourists alike. The famous Pastel de Nata was created here. Only in this café are they called the Pastel de Belém. Made from incredibly light flaky pastry with a filling of eggs, sugar and the secret ingredient, they are guaranteed to melt in your mouth. Don’t waste time by ordering just one – two is the norm!
DURATION: 3-4 hours, depending on coffee stops, photograph stops and the pace of the slowest walker.
COST: . €120. per private tour. (Entrance fees not included)
BOOKINGS: Eva Sanches. Email: [email protected]. Mobile: (+ 351) 917 300 345.
Eva is a qualified Tour Guide who was born in Scotland and has lived in Cascais for over 40 years.