Carved Balconies And Spectacular Turrets On The Tower Of Belem
The Tower Of Belem, in Lisbon Portugal, with it's ornate exterior, carved ornamental decor and extraordinary balconies, has guarded Portugal since the sixteenth century. Its outstanding architecture is closely related to the Moorish architectural designs of that time. The base has six sides with the remarkable turrets on the corners. This amazing tower was built to stand guard over Portugal, making an attack by sea, extremely difficult for its enemies to pull off.
Notice The Fine Details On The Base Of The Tower
The Tower was designed and authorized by King D. Joao II, but built near the northern bank of the Targus, by Manuel I during the years between 1514 and 1520. It was actually built on a small island that was close to the shore at that time. This was a work of love, intended to protect a proud and important people from attacks coming by the way of the sea.
Notice The Intrigue Of The Almost Lacy Balconies And Elegant Turrets.
The turrets have crosses on the tops of the turrets, seemingly to be a reflection back on the symbols of the Cross Of The Order Of Christ. The Order Of Christ grew out of the what was the former Knights Templar Order, abolished in 1312.
Shown Is The Tower Of Belem As It Jets Out Into The Tejo Estuary
As the clouds settle in on the Tejo Estuary, you can see the shapes and silhouettes of this beautiful fortress which sits on the northern bank of the Estuary. Notice the peacefulness of the water, the calm, and the mystique of the area. It is almost like the estuary, itself, knows it is in the safe hands of the fortress.
Close Up Of The Fine Details Of The Top Of The Turrets
Notice the beauty of the Lioz Limestone that the structure is constructed from. The four story tower is over 98 feet high. Also the crosses of the Templars can be seen engraved into the limestone. if you look up from here you will see St. Vincent, the Patron Saint Of Lisbon, keep careful watch over this seafaring kingdom. On the other side the Archangel Michael, a warrior angel, has two statues.
The Ocean Mote Under The Draw Bridge
The mote surrounded the Tower which is at the mouth of the Tagus River. Over the centuries this has often been referred to as "The Ceremonial Gateway to Lisbon."
The Drawbridge Which Provides Access Over The Ocean Mote
The drawbridge still functions just as it always has. It is raised when the Tower Of Belem is closed to visitors and opened when the Tower is open.
Steps Facing The Tower Of Belem
Any exploration of the Tower begins on the steps which lead you to the drawbridge and entrance to the Tower. From this vantage point it is also the best place to get a good look at the beautiful rhinoceros carved into the base of the tower. This was a gift from the Sultan of Cambay to Manuel 1. This was a very unique but valuable gift to the Portuguese nation.
Outside Tiles Around The Tower Of Belem
The tiles outside the fortress are all handmade and cut in unique and diverse sizes, fitting nicely together for a sturdy walkway.
Looking Out From The Tower Observation Deck
As you look out from the observation deck of the tower, you are eye to eye with this beautiful canopy of trees. It almost seems as if you are so high that you can see forever.
This fortified tower is a major monument and one of the many iconic symbols of the city of Lisbon, Portugal. Lisbon has many such symbols and all tell a part of the early history and culture of Lisbon.
Other Steemit articles we published on this area of Lisbon are:
Torre de Belem Or The Belem Tower In Lisbon Portugal
https://steemit.com/travel/@exploretraveler/torre-de-belem-or-the-belem-tower-in-lisbon-portugal
Photo of the Day ~ Christo Rei Statue Says Obbrigado Or Thank You at:
Credits And Sources
Note: Facts regarding the Tower of Belem were researched from the government site -- www.torrebelem.gov.
and the World Mounument Fund at : https://www.wmf.org/project/tower-bel%C3%A9m
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Looks amazing!!
Glad you enjoyed @rkrijgsman.
It is so grand over the sea.
@pilgrimtraveler Yes a wonderful place to visit.
I have listen about belem
Thank you @believeme
Amazing picture post by u
Thank you @believeme.
The tower of belem....looking awesome.
Spectaculer things are here...
Thank's for sharing.....
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Your welcome @shagorshikder. Glad you liked it.
img credz: pixabay.com
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Thank you
I am currently looking for information on safe and reliable travel.
Because maybe by the end of this year I will try to tour some countries for a vacation.
@shihabieee we just went to Lisbon and Istanbul Turkey and felt safe,
Beautiful
Thanks @totsandtravel
As you mentioned "This amazing tower was built to stand guard over Portugal, making an attack by sea, extremely difficult for its enemies to pull off." Yes I had also visited one of historical place in Pakistan, I saw strong building of of design.
Yes, they are strong and magnificent, yet the 16th century was a long time ago. Thanks for reading @engramanullah.
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Absolutely amazing. Did you get a chance to go inside, since it looks like you can get inside of this beautiful structured Tower of Belem. Thanks for sharing.
Thank you @joalvarez. Yes, you are allowed to see many parts of it.
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Thank you
a very beautiful building built on a beautiful island makes us calm to see it. thanks for you my friend has shared.
Thank you @jasonmunapasee.
my friend there is a new post, if there is time do not forget to visit.
done your vote plz mine reply msg thnx alot vote me
Thank you @janujanu.
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Thank you
Thank you
great job.
Thank you @rana420
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Tower in mid of ocean? it's beautiful
Yes it is @swaraj. Thank you for reading.
amazing..
Thank you.
you are welco my friend..
Good post my friend..
Thank you @suhadi.
You are welcome my friend..
Even the tides of time have stood firm for this grand old building, shows how well things were made in years gone by.
Thanks for sharing your exploration @exploretraveler
Your welcome @joanstewart.
wow nice work on steemit
Thank you @technical.google.
@exploretraveler Awesome post!! What an interesting and beautiful place!
Thank you @vegoutt-travel.
Thank you for the sharing.
Your welcome @yusrizalhasbi.
what a lovely report! you reminded me of our journey to Lisbon, sunset and Belem Tower, and I remember that tree as well :)
thank you!
Your welcome @zirochka.
So solid structures. Difficult to imagine in today's time.
Yes, it is @amity123.
wow, beautiful photos.
Thanks @nytravelfoodsurf.
very nice photos great dear
Thanks @live-with-love.
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STOPwow very very beutifull photos 💕
wana go everywhere