Neighbourhood
Alfama
Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon's oldest quarter, a maze of lanes, tiled houses, washing lines and fado bars.
Monument · Portugal · Lisbon
Padrao dos Descobrimentos
A huge riverside monument celebrating Portugal's explorers.
Paid entry about 45 min
For storytellers
Why Padrao dos Descobrimentos matters
The Monument to the Discoveries is shaped like the prow of a ship, with a crowd of explorers and figures from history leaning into the wind. Prince Henry the Navigator leads at the front. You can ride a lift to the top for a view across the river and the monastery. A map of the world is laid out in the pavement in front.
Talking points
- A giant world map is set into the pavement.
- The top gives views of Belem.
- It sits beside the Tagus.
Free to read aloud or adapt in your video. Check facts that matter to you against an official source before you publish.
More in Lisbon
Tower · UNESCO
Belem Tower
Lisbon, Portugal
A 16th-century fortified tower on the Tagus, symbol of Portugal's Age of Discovery.
Church, mosque or temple · UNESCO
Jeronimos Monastery
Lisbon, Portugal
A showpiece of Manueline architecture, with an ornate cloister, near Belem Tower.
Castle
Sao Jorge Castle
Lisbon, Portugal
A hilltop castle with ramparts, peacocks and some of Lisbon's best panoramic views.
Food and drink
Pasteis de Belem
Lisbon, Portugal
The famous bakery that has made custard tarts to a secret recipe for generations.
Square
Praca do Comercio
Lisbon, Portugal
A huge riverfront square framed by yellow arcades and a triumphal arch.
Also nearby
Within about 40 km, closest first.