Portugal-Basilica

The southern façade of the Belem Tower, facing the river, is the most impressive. It was built that way on purpose so that it could impress visitors who arrived at the harbor.

There are six turrets with small windows, where soldiers hid their guns and cannons.

On the left is a sculpture representing Our Lady of Safe Homecoming, who was believed to protect sailors.

The white stone structure has Moorish styled watch towers, much ornate design, and there are four stories of history to peruse.

The cloister view from above.

The inner cloister of the the tower.

Staying inline to get inside the tower.

Once in you had to climb a set a narrow staircase.

1st floor is the Governor's Hall with a spiral staircase leading to the 2nd floor.

There not much to see on this floor except for an interesting narrow passage to the Governor's, big enough to let one person in a the time (you can see people go through the opening -in the center of the picture).

You can see the small narrow passage

Climbing more stairs to the 2nd level.

We are now on the 2nd floor which is the King's Hall ( the Royal Residence).

Vaulted ceiling and checkered pattern floor, there still exists a recess fireplace built in the wall that suggests the idea of palatial comfort.

View of the River Tagus from one of the large window.

View of part of the Bastion from the King's hall.

It is not very big-View of the entire room.

Nice view of the River Tejo from the 2nd floor of the tower.

The visit is over and we are on our way out.

Wooden bridge (gangway) providing access to the tower.

Along the harbor we saw this really cute vendor setting up some chairs facing the Tejo River and customer can order a glass of wine while enjoying the view.

NEXT.... Jeronimos Monastery