Padrão dos Descobrimentos
Padrão dos Descobrimentos, Maritime monument in Belém, Portugal
Description
The white stone structure rises 52 meters (171 feet) above the Tagus and is shaped as a caravel sailing westward. Sculptures extend along both sides of the stylized ship hull, forming a procession of figures that appear to gaze toward the sea. The construction stands on a base decorated with wave patterns and historical motifs referencing maritime expeditions.
History
Architect Cottinelli Telmo and sculptor Leopoldo de Almeida designed a temporary structure using perishable materials for the 1940 Portuguese World Exhibition. The permanent version was inaugurated in 1960 to honor the 500th anniversary of Henry the Navigator's death. The project used Lioz limestone and concrete to reconstruct the original form at a larger scale.
Culture
This structure displays 33 figures from Portuguese navigation, including explorers, cartographers, missionaries, and navigators arranged along both sides. Henry the Navigator stands at the front holding a small caravel model, while other figures carry instruments, maps, and symbols of their discoveries. This stone assembly represents Portugal's contribution to worldwide navigation during the Age of Discovery.
Practical
An elevator and stairs lead to the observation platform with views of the Tagus, the 25 de Abril Bridge, and the surrounding Belém area. The structure is several walking minutes from Mosteiro dos Jerónimos and Torre de Belém, both reachable on foot. Opening hours and admission fees vary seasonally; morning visits are recommended for fewer crowds.
Did you know?
A 50-meter (164-foot) mosaic compass rose on the ground to the north documents routes of Portuguese expeditions from the 15th and 16th centuries. South Africa gifted this colored work in 1960, showing dates and destinations of important voyages. The display also includes latitudes and longitudes of significant points along expansion routes to Asia, Africa, and South America.
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