Introduction – Where History Meets Flavor
Belém is a true invitation to travel through time. On the banks of the Tagus River, this area of Lisbon breathes history and grandeur, carrying with it the echoes of the great maritime discoveries, most known as the Portuguese Golden Age. Here, brave navigators set out towards the unknown, majestic monuments were erected, and some of the country’s most iconic traditions were born.
Although nowadays it is an integral part of Lisbon, Belém was once an independent municipality and played an essential role in the Portuguese expansion. From the medieval port of Restelo (former name), where the caravels bid farewell to the coast, to the imposing Monastery of Saint Jerome, built to celebrate Portugal’s maritime achievements, each street and building tells a story.
But Belém is not just an open-air museum, it is a place to literally savour the Portuguese culture, literally! It is here that the famous Pastel de Belém was born, a sweet that has been captivating visitors for almost 200 years. Among imposing monuments, quiet gardens, and gastronomic delights, this is one of the most unmissable walks in the city.
So, ready to explore Belém? Let’s go!
1. An Adventure Through Portugal’s Age of Discoveries
Monastery of Saint Jerome:
Imagine standing on the shores of the Tagus River in the 16th century, watching towering ships ready to set sail for distant lands. Right here King Manuel I built the Monastery of Saint Jerome as a tribute to Portugal’s Age of Discoveries.
With its intricate stone carvings of ropes, sea creatures, and exotic plants, the monastery’s architecture reflects the spirit of exploration. Inside, beneath its grand arches, lies Vasco da Gama, the legendary navigator who found the sea route to India. His tomb rests in a place of honor, surrounded by an atmosphere that still echoes the prayers of sailors who once knelt here before embarking on perilous journeys.
Tower of Belém:
A short walk along the riverside leads to the Tower of Belém, an iconic fortress that once stood as Lisbon’s first line of defense. Built to guard the entrance to the city, it also served as a farewell point for explorers setting out on their voyages and a welcoming sight for those returning home.
Imagine the excitement of a returning ship, sails billowing in the wind, as it caught the first glimpse of this majestic fortress, a symbol of home, safety, and triumph.
Monument to the Discoveries:
As you stroll along the waterfront, you’ll come across the Monument to the Discoveries, a breathtaking tribute to the fearless explorers who shaped the world. Designed in the shape of a ship, this massive structure honors the visionaries of the Age of Exploration, with Prince Henry the Navigator leading the way, flanked by cartographers, sailors, and scholars who played a crucial role in Portugal’s maritime empire.
2. The Sweet Story of Pastéis de Belém
As you walk through the streets of Belém, there’s one aroma that is impossible to resist, the warm, sweet scent of freshly baked Pastéis de Belém [custard tart]. Crispy, golden layers of delicate pastry give way to a rich, creamy custard filling, perfectly balanced between sweetness and a hint of caramelized goodness. With a light dusting of cinnamon or powdered sugar, each bite is a mouth-watering experience, a taste of Lisbon’s most treasured sweet.
But how did these little bites of heaven come to be?
It all started in the 1st half of the 19th century, just steps away from the Monastery of St. Jerome, where monks once perfected the art of pastry-making. When monasteries across Portugal were closed in 1834 (expulsion of all religious orders), one enterprising monk sold his precious recipe to a local sugar refinery, and by 1837, the famous Pastéis de Belém started appearing to the people.
Unlike any other pastel de nata, these custard tarts are still made nowadays, following a “secret recipe”, passed down through generations of master pastry chefs in the “Oficina do Segredo” (The Secret Workshop). Every day, visitors from around the world flock to this historic bakery, eager to taste the original pastry that has captivated people from all around the world for nearly two centuries.
3. More to see in Belém
MAAT (Museum of Art, Architecture & Technology) – For lovers of contemporary art and avant-garde design, the Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology (MAAT) is a must-visit. This futuristic museum, situated along the banks of the Tagus, is a striking contrast to the historic sites of Belém. Combining an old power station from 1908 with a modern, elegant and undulating gallery, MAAT creates a dialogue between the past and the future. Inside, you’ll find bold exhibitions that explore the intersections between technology, creativity and sustainability. Whether you’re admiring its architecture, wandering through interactive exhibitions or relaxing on its terrace with a breathtaking view of the river, MAAT is a memorable experience.
Botanical Garden of Belém – Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enter the Botanical Garden of Belém a peaceful heaven filled with exotic plants and centuries-old trees. Originally conceived as a royal garden, it is perfect for a leisurely stroll, offering shady paths, vibrant flowers and a moment of serenity. Whether you want to admire rare botanical species or simply relax in a beautiful natural setting, this gem is the perfect place to unwind after exploring Belém’s many sites.
4. Practical Tips for Exploring Belém
Best times to visit
Belém is an unmissable place to visit, but timing is everything! Mornings are generally quieter, especially if you want to enjoy the Jerónimos Monastery or climb the Belém Tower without long queues (however, they are still unavoidable). If you dream of tasting an authentic Pastel de Belém, avoid the rush hours between 11am and 4pm, when the queues goround the block. An early morning or late afternoon visit guarantees a much better experience.
How to get there from Lisbon’s centre
- By Tram: The historic Tram 15E departs from Praça da Figueira and Cais do Sodré, offering a scenic ride along the river.
- By Train: Take the Cascais Line train from Cais do Sodré—Belém is just two stops away.
- By Bus: Several buses (728, 729, 714) connect downtown Lisbon to Belém.
What are you waiting for to see these historic monuments and enjoy a delicious pastel de belém during your visit?
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