Category: Portugal

The Belém District is called Santa Maria de Belém parish within the western limits of Lisbon, Portugal. The district is along the northern shore of the Tagus (Tejo) River estuary near its outlet to the Atlantic Ocean.

Lisbon’s most crucial monument location is in the Belém District.  

Belém (Bethlehem) is a former royal residence known for its Manueline (early 16th-century) architecture, notably the Jerónimos monastery, founded by Manuel I in 1499 in honor of the explorer Vasco da Gama’s discovery of a sea route to India. The white Tower of Belém was built-in 1515–21 to protect the entrance of the Tagus. The two monuments were collectively designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1983. Also notable is the Ajuda National Palace. Replacing the royal palace, destroyed by fire, the royal family left the Neoclassical building unfinished when they went to escape the forces of Napoleon I. They sailed into Brazil in 1807. The finely furnished palace rooms are open to the public.

Getting to Belém District

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You will find Belém in the southwesternmost district of Lisbon. It is a long distance to walk for many people from the city center but still easily accessible. 

The most straightforward manner to get to Belém is to ride the tram nº 15. You will want to go to Praça do Comércio, and you will see at the Cais do Sodré station. Typically there are many people there. So if you see many tourist-looking folks, you know you are probably in the right location as they are heading to Belém too. 

When you embark on the tram, be cautious of pickpockets. Therefore this is a trendy line for proficient thieves since it’s always full of tourists.

Where can I find this Historic District?

The location of this neighborhood is at the mouth of the Tagus River. Portugal’s various explorers began their epic journeys here. They set sail to other parts of the world. Then brought back riches and their many discoveries.

Belém houses two incredibly famous landmarks. The first is Torre de Belém or Belém Tower. The second is the Mosteiro dos Jerónimos AKA Jerónimos Monastery. Visitors to the Belèm district will also enjoy exploring Padrão dos Descobrimentos (Monument to the Discoveries), the Ponte 25 de Abril, and the National Coach Museum.

Before you leave, Belém visits Pastéis de Belém and try a pastéis de Belém. The building was attached to a sugar cane refinery. Here they would create the typical and delicious Portuguese egg tart pastry. They have been doing so in this small shop since 1837.

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What to Do in Lisbon's Belém District?

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Lisbon's Belém district has many things to do. If you decide to go here, you should consider visiting a few places within the district. Since you will be away from the city center, you should capitalize on some of these unique places in Lisbon.

What to see in the Belem District?

• Belém Tower Explore some other fantastic attractions nearby while you're there makes sense.
• Jerónimos Monastery (Mosteiro dos Jerónimos) – a 15-minute walk away from the tower. This religious site is a UNESCO World Heritage site. I suggest buying the combined ticket at the tower and monastery entrance for 12€. 
• Pastéis de Belém – located only 1.3 km from the tower, this bakery is said to be the "birthplace" of pastel de nata tart, Portugal's iconic dessert. There's quite a hype around it, but I must admit, it's the best one in the city! 100% recommended!
• MAAT (Museum of Art, Architecture, and Technology) – 2 km away. It is right on the waterfront and hosted in an old power station. Make sure you don't miss the viewing area (free access) for some fantastic views.
• CCB (Centro Cultural de Belém) – located only 10 minutes away, is the place to go if you're a performance art and photography fan. It also hosts the Museu Coleção Berardo, Portugal's leading contemporary art museum.
• Padrão dos Descobrimentos (Monument to the Discoveries in Lisbon) – 1 km away (10 minutes). The monument is situated on the waterfront, carved with statues depicting the Age of Discoveries.
• Museu Nacional dos Coches (Coach Museum) – 1.5 km away. It's a great place where you can see intricately carved ceremonial carriages and royal coaches; 
• Palácio Nacional da Ajuda – 2.8 km away. The magnificent national palace is full of superb rooms and precious items.

Atypical Last Thoughts

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If you are visiting Lisbon, you should consider spending a day in the Belém District. There is plenty of history to take in as many of the places in Lisbon are hundreds of years old. Depending on your interests will dictate what you will want to do.

The Belém tower and Jerónimos Monastery are the most popular places for tourists. If you find these areas crowded, consider going to the MAAT or grabbing a pastry at Pastéis de Belém. Typically these areas will clear out around the lunch hour, and you will be able to enjoy the locations with less of a crowd.