The historic neighbor to Lisbon makes for a nice
sidetrip
Images of Lisbon --
Part Two: Belém
Belém
is an area to the west of the Caixa. It's easy to get there via a trolley or by
a commuter train from the Cais do Sodre metro stop. Along with the Renaissance
structures are ultramodern ones. There are a series of museums as well.
Belém is a wonderful place. You can spend two whole days there if you
needed
to.
The
Cultural Center of Belém (l) is a rather new structure that houses the
Museum of Design and performances spaces, as well as music and art stores. The
Tower of Belém (r) is a wonder bit of Italian Renaissance architecture
that has seen ships come and go from Lisboa for
centuries.
The
Monument of the Discoveries is a six-storey structure built on the Tejo River.
It was constructed by Salazar, the dictator (1928-1968), to memorialize
Portugal's glorious past of discoveries and trade. The figure to the far right
is Henry the Navigator, a King of Portugal who never left the country. The
Monastery of Jeronimos (r) is a large complex set back from the water. There is
a striking old/new contrast in this part of Portugal's capital.