Belem Tower


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Belem Tower
	Belem Tower is located in the Belem district of Lisbon, the capital city of Portugal. The Belem Tower is a fortified tower which was built during the 16th century. This was built in the memory of an expedition of Vasco Da Gama. The Belem Tower is built in the pattern of the Gothic style. This Belem tower has been declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983.

The importance of the Belem tower lies in the fact that it was built on one hand as a ceremonial gateway to Lisbon and on the other hand it was considered a part of the defense system of the entrance of river Tagus. It was constructed during 1515 and 1521 by the famous military architect of Portugal, Francisco De Arruda. Along with the influence of the Gothic style, the construction of the tower is also influenced by Moorish art. The tower shows various delicate art decorations which include arched windows, balconies, ribbed cupolas and a lot more. In the past the Belem Tower was situated in a small island on river Tagus. But now the island is moored and so the tower has moved. The Belem Tower has been dedicated to St. Vincent, one of the patron saints of Lisbon.

Later on when the Spanish troops occupied Portugal, this Belem Tower served as a prison as well as a custom house in the year 1840, the tower was restored by king Ferdinand II.
The Belem Tower is an important work of art of the Gothic style especially the late Gothic style. There are various Manueline motifs which decorate the tower.Some of the important manueline motifs include armillary sphere, Order of Christ, twisted ropes, and many more things. The walls of the tower are heavily decorated and especially the walls facing the river. The entrance of the tower also has many motifs. The twisted ropes decorates the full tower.

Also there is a Venetian touch in the style of art and architecture. There are narrow spiral staircases which are an important part of the tower.