The Monument to the Discoveries (Padrão dos Descobrimentos) stands proudly on the northern bank of the Tagus River in Lisbon’s Belém district. Built in 1960 to commemorate the 500th anniversary of the death of Prince Henry the Navigator, it honours Portugal’s leading role during the Age of Discovery.
History of the monument
The original structure was created for the 1940 Portuguese World Exhibition. It was made of temporary materials but the permanent stone monument we see today was inaugurated two decades later.
Originally designed by architect Cottinelli Telmo and sculptor Leopoldo de Almeida, the 52-metre-high monument resembles the prow of a ship heading out to sea, symbolising Portugal’s exploration heritage.
Figures represented on the monument
The striking stone carvings feature more than 30 historical figures who played key roles in Portuguese exploration. At the front is Prince Henry the Navigator, holding a ship in his hands. Behind him are famous explorers including Vasco da Gama, Ferdinand Magellan, and Pedro Álvares Cabral, alongside cartographers, missionaries, and monarchs who supported these expeditions.
Climbing to the viewing platform
Visitors can take a lift to the top of the Monument to the Discoveries for sweeping views across Lisbon. From here you can see the Tagus River, the 25th of April Bridge, the Jerónimos Monastery, and the Belém Tower. At the base of the monument, a large compass rose and world map in mosaic depict the routes of Portuguese explorers, making it one of the most photographed spots in Belém.
5 great things to do in Lisbon 🇵🇹
- 🏰 Combine nearby highlights on a small group tour – to Sintra, Pena Palace and Cascais.
- 🍷 Eat your way through lesser-visited neighbourhoods – on a food and wine tour.
- 🛺 Get a local’s eye view of Lisbon – on a tuk-tuk tour.
- 🥐 Take a bakery masterclass – and make your own pastel de nata.
- ⛵ Enjoy wine at sunset – on a river sailing cruise.
Practical information for visitors
- Location: Avenida Brasília, Belém district, Lisbon.
- Opening hours: Typically open daily, with extended hours in summer; closed on certain public holidays.
- Tickets: When I checked in September 2025, a €5 fee applies to the exhibition inside. That goes up to €10 for anyone wanting to head up to the observation deck as well.
- Best time to visit: Late afternoon for softer light and fewer crowds at the viewing platform.
- Nearby attractions: The Jerónimos Monastery, Belém Tower, and the famous Pastéis de Belém bakery are all within easy walking distance.
FAQs about the Monument to the Discoveries
- What does the monument represent? It symbolises Portugal’s maritime exploration during the 15th and 16th centuries.
- Can you go inside? Yes, visitors can access exhibitions inside and take the lift to the rooftop viewpoint.
- Is the viewpoint worth it? It’s not essential, but it offers one of the best panoramas of Lisbon’s riverside.
- How long does a visit take? Around 30 to 45 minutes, longer if you explore nearby attractions.
- Is it accessible by public transport? Yes, trams and buses from central Lisbon run regularly to Belém.
More Lisbon travel
Other Lisbon travel articles on Planet Whitley include:
- 5 recommendations to make your Lisbon break better.
- Visiting Museu Coleção Berardo, Lisbon: practical guide for first-time visitors.
- Discovering the gorgeous tile art in Lisbon.
- A practical guide to visiting Lisbon’s Beer Museum.
- Top tips for visiting the Oceanário de Lisboa.
