Padrão dos Descobrimentos travel guide

The Padrão dos Descobrimentos, also known as the Monument to the Discoveries, is a striking monument located in the Belem district of Lisbon. This iconic structure was erected in 1960 to commemorate the 500th anniversary of the death of Prince Henry the Navigator, a central figure in Portugal's Age of Discovery.

The monument's design, initiated by Portuguese architect José Ângelo Cottinelli Telmo and completed by sculptor Leopoldo de Almeida, is a tribute to Portugal's maritime exploration legacy. It features a 52-meter high slab of concrete, shaped like the prow of a ship. On its sides are the statues of 33 figures from the Age of Discovery, including explorers, cartographers, artists, scientists, and missionaries.

The original monument was initially made from perishable materials for the 1940 Portuguese World Exhibition. However, due to its popularity, a permanent version was later constructed and it has since become one of Lisbon's most visited landmarks. Today, visitors can also climb to the top of the monument for a panoramic view of the Tagus River and the city of Lisbon.

The Padrão dos Descobrimentos, or Monument to the Discoveries, holds a commanding presence on the Lisbon waterfront with its soaring height of 52 meters. Unique in its design, this monument is shaped like a ship's prow, symbolizing the Age of Discoveries. The monument features 33 figures from the era, each intricately carved and standing at a notable 9 meters tall. These figures include notable Portuguese explorers, monarchs, cartographers, and missionaries, with Henry the Navigator at the forefront.

The monument's base houses a compass rose, gifted by the Republic of South Africa, embedded in marble with a detailed map of the world at its center. It highlights the routes of various Portuguese explorers during the 15th and 16th centuries. Above, an accessible viewing platform offers panoramic views of the Tagus River and Belém district. The interior of the monument hosts cultural events and exhibitions, making it not only a tribute to Portugal’s glorious past but also a space for contemporary expression. The Padrão dos Descobrimentos encapsulates the spirit of exploration and discovery, making it a unique monument in the heart of Lisbon.

Located in the dynamic Belém, the popular Padrão dos Descobrimentos is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful city of Lisbon or as a stop on your countrywide road trip through Portugal.

Lisbon is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Lisbon offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit this popular landmark in Lisbon and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Praça do Comércio, Belém Tower, Castelo de S. Jorge, LX Factory, and Santa Justa Lift.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Lisbon has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Lisbon, a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in Portugal!

Padrão dos Descobrimentos is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Lisbon, Portugal. If you're flying in, Lisbon Portela Airport is approximately 6.8 miles (10.9 km) away from Lisbon. From there, you can easily reach Padrão dos Descobrimentos by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Lisbon, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Padrão dos Descobrimentos, which is located 3.9 miles (6.2 km) from the city center. You can also rent a car and drive to Padrão dos Descobrimentos, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. Its exact address is Av. Brasília, 1400-038 Lisboa, Portugal.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Padrão dos Descobrimentos!

The best time to explore Padrão dos Descobrimentos is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to November). These seasons offer mild, pleasant weather ideal for outdoor exploration. Springtime is punctuated with beautiful blossoms adorning the city, while fall provides a stunning backdrop of changing leaves. Moreover, these off-peak periods have fewer tourists, allowing for a more relaxed and intimate experience at the monument. On Tuesdays and Sundays, you can coincide your visit with Belém's bustling market, offering a delightful array of local produce and traditional crafts. As the monument is popular among tourists, it's suggested to arrive early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the busiest times. In summer, consider an evening visit to enjoy the monument's illumination, adding an enchanting dimension to its architectural beauty. Regardless of when you visit, the panoramic view from the top is a year-round highlight.

With a rental car, discovering the popular Padrão dos Descobrimentos and Portugal's captivating landscapes becomes a breeze, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Upon arrival, international travelers can choose from 3 reputable rental car companies near Lisbon Portela Airport and the city of Lisbon, making transportation seamless and efficient.

Rental car companies in Portugal cater to a variety of preferences, offering vehicles ranging from compact and midsize to premium, estate, and even camper vans or convertibles. To select the perfect ride, consider your itinerary and specific travel plans in Lisbon and beyond.

Conveniently explore Padrão dos Descobrimentos and plenty more captivating attractions in Lisbon by staying at a top-rated hotel in the center of the city. With comfortable accommodations and easy access to Padrão dos Descobrimentos and other notable landmarks, wake up well-rested every day, ready to explore all that Lisbon has to offer.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Padrão dos Descobrimentos below.

Aside from Padrão dos Descobrimentos, Lisbon is home to numerous other top attractions waiting to be explored. From museums and architectural masterpieces to sculptures and natural wonders, the city offers a diverse range of sights to behold. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Lisbon, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely Praça do Comércio, Belém Tower, and Castelo de S. Jorge.

Praça do Comércio is a bucket-list establishment and top attraction in Lisbon, drawing numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 100,000 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the city. The exact address of Praça do Comércio is 1100-148 Lisbon, Portugal.

Another appreciated attraction in Lisbon is Belém Tower. Like Praça do Comércio, this is one of the most popular sites to visit in the city. With an impressive average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars among 91,000 visitors, it’s also one of the highest-rated. The exact address of this establishment is Av. Brasília, 1400-038 Lisboa, Portugal.

Castelo de S. Jorge is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Lisbon. This museum and top attraction in Lisbon has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 86,000 visitors. This attraction is located at the address of R. De Santa Cruz do Castelo, 1100-129 Lisboa, Portugal.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the city of Lisbon below.