12 Famous Landmarks in Portugal
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Want an immersive experience in Portugal? Do not miss out on its famous landmarks. And this is not just about Portugal, but any other destination. Have limited time at a destination? Your best bet would be to prioritize its renowned landmarks. Want some Instagrammable shots? Let it be at the famous landmarks. Want to learn about the destination’s history and culture? It would have to be at the renowned landmarks.
There is a good reason they have grown popular: they do not fail to captivate tourists in one way or another.
Looking to enrich your Portuguese escape? Do not miss out on these 12 famous landmarks in Portugal. Whether for their rich history, impressive architecture, or beautiful scenery, these landmarks will make your Portuguese trip even more memorable
Jerónimos Monastery, Lisbon
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Still in Belem District lies the Jerónimos Monastery, a perfect destination for history lovers, architectural enthusiasts, and anyone interested in Portugal’s rich cultural heritage. This monastery was commissioned by King Manuel I in 1501 to commemorate Vasco da Gama’s successful journey to India and to honor the Virgin Mary. The construction was funded by the wealth derived from the spice trade.
The architectural details of the monastery are definitely the star attraction. Take a keen interest in the structure’s decorations, including decorative columns, maritime motifs, and religious symbols. Other unmissable highlights include the two-story cloisters, the Chapter House, which now serves as a museum showcasing artifacts related to the monastery’s history and the tombs of Vasco da Gama and Luís de Camões.
Read also: Imposing Castles in Portugal
Pena Palace, Sintra
Do not complete your Portuguese trip without exploring the Pena Palace, a 19th-century Romanticist palace situated on the top of a hill in the Sintra Mountains. On clear days, you can see Pena Palace from as far as Lisbon.
There are so many things to like about this palace, including its strategic location, breathtaking views, unique architectural styles, vivid colors, eclectic design, and fairytale-like appearance. The place’s interior is a treasure trove of richly decorated rooms, including the Great Hall, the Arab Room, and the Royal Dining Room. Come ready with your camera because the period decorations in these rooms are absolutely photogenic.
Also, from the palace’s terraces, you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding hills, Sintra, and the Atlantic Ocean. Finish your Pena Palace trip by wandering through the extensive Pena Park. This park features beautifully manicured gardens and exotic plants, perfect for relaxing after long hours of exploration.
Read also: Hidden Gems in Portugal
Quinta da Regaleira, Sintra
Quinta da Regaleira is an extravagant estate known for its mysterious and romantic ambiance. The property consists of a grand mansion (the “Palace of Monteiro the Millionaire”) and extensive gardens filled with beautiful structures, hidden tunnels, and unique architectural pieces. The estate is often described as a blend of Gothic, Renaissance, Manueline, and neoclassical styles, creating an unforgettable experience for architectural enthusiasts.
On your visit, make sure you explore the palace’s exquisitely decorated rooms, which include antique furnishings and beautiful tile work; the Initiation Well, a deep inverted tower accessible via a spiral case leading into an underground tunnel system; the chapel adorned with religious symbols, stained glass, and detailed carvings; and the well-designed gardens featuring fountains, symbolic statues, and hidden pathways.
Read also: Fairy Tale Portuguese Villages
São Jorge Castle (Castelo de São Jorge), Lisbon
I don’t know about you, but I personally can never say no to a historic hilltop castle offering panoramic views of the surroundings. São Jorge Castle, located on a hilltop in Alfama in Lisbon, overlooks the city and the Tagus River. If you are a history buff, this destination will let you explore unknown details about Lisbon’s rich past, especially as a defense stronghold.
While the castle has evidence of existence dating back to the Iron Age, the current structure was constructed in the 11th century during the Moorish period. It has served as a royal residence and military defense structure throughout history. Its captivating mix of historical significance, architectural beauty, and breathtaking views is absolutely irresistible.
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You will also learn that within the castle’s grounds, there is an archaeological site that hosts artifacts from different historical periods, including Moorish, Roman, and Iron Age settlements. Additionally, peacocks roam the castle grounds, adding a touch of charm to the castle’s ambiance. Lastly, during your visit, do not miss out on the castle’s Torre de Ulisses, a tower housing a periscope that provides a 360-degree view of Lisbon.
Read also: Surreal Places To See in Portugal
Carmo Convent, Lisbon
The Carmo Convent is a historic Gothic convent renowned for its striking architecture and hauntingly beautiful ruins. The convent’s roofless nave, which was destroyed in the Great Lisbon Earthquake of 1755, is one of the best spots to peek into the city’s turbulent past. The convent now houses the Carmo Archaeological Museum, which features a fascinating collection of artifacts from various periods of Lisbon’s history.
There are so many ways to experience Carmo Convent, including wandering through the ruins of the naves, exploring the museum’s collection, which includes artifacts from prehistoric times, Roman and Visigothic periods, and the Middle Ages, or strolling through the artistic Gothic tombs including that of King Ferdinand I. Truly, whether you are intrigued by art, history, or architecture, you will find something that suits your taste in Carmo Convent.
Read also: Insta-Worthy Spots in Portugal
Clérigos Tower, Porto
Located in Porto’s historical center is Clérigos Tower, a prominent bell tower famous for its impressive height and Baroque architecture. At 248 feet tall (75.6 meters), it was the tallest structure in Portugal when it was completed and remains one of the tallest bell towers in the country. The tower served as a bell tower and a navigation landmark for ships entering the Douro River.
The tower offers breathtaking panoramic views of Porto, the Douro River, and the surrounding landscape. However, you have to go up 225 steps to get to the top of the tower for these views; it will be worth every minute. Clérigos is part of the Clérigos Church, which is equally impressive; when visiting, spare time to admire the church’s intricate woodwork, gilded altars, and beautiful artwork.
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Benagil Cave, Algarve
Nature enthusiasts, Benagil Cave is a spot you cannot afford to miss when exploring the Algarve. These breathtaking sea caves are characterized by dome skylight caves that let sunlight seep into their interiors, creating a magical ambiance. The cave’s sandy beach, surrounded by towering rock formations and the turquoise waters of the Atlantic Ocean, makes it one of the most picturesque and iconic sea caves in the world.
Whether you’re a photographer, adventure seeker, or nature lover, visiting Benagil Cave would be absolutely unforgettable. The spot is perfect for boating, kayaking, paddle boarding, swimming, and sunbathing. We recommend booking a boat tour from nearby towns like Portimão, Carvoeiro, or Albufeira for a guided and informative experience.
Read also: Budget-Friendly Beach Towns in Portugal
Évora Roman Temple, Évora
Also known as the Temple of Diana, Évora Roman Temple is a well-preserved Roman temple in the history-soaked Évora. While there are various reasons to visit this temple, its grandeur and historical significance make it a standout attraction. Additionally, you cannot ignore that it is one of the best preserved Roman structures in the Iberian Peninsula, a fact that made it recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986.
If you are a photographer, a good time to visit the temple is in the evening. The scenery of the sun setting behind the temple’s Corinthian temples is one your camera lenses will adore. Luckily, the temple has information plaques that offer insights into the temple’s historical context. While guided tours are highly recommended for an enriching experience, these plaques make it easier to have a self-guided tour.
Read also: Best Things To Do in Porto
Fátima Sanctuary, Fátima
Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fátima is a major Catholic pilgrimage site located in the town of Fátima. One of the most important religious sites in the world, Fatina Sanctuary attracts millions of pilgrims and tourists every year. The sanctuary is made up of a vast complex that includes the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary, the Chapel of the Apparitions, and the modern Basilica of the Holy Trinity, among other significant structures.
The Sanctuary of Fátima is rooted in the events of 1917 when three young shepherd children, Lúcia Santos and her cousins Francisco and Jacinta Marto, reported seeing apparitions of the Virgin Mary in the Cova da Iria fields near Fátima. According to their accounts, the Virgin Mary appeared to them on six occasions between May 13 and October 13, delivering messages of prayer and repentance. The most famous apparition occurred on October 13, known as the “Miracle of the Sun,” witnessed by thousands of people.
Following these events, Fátima became a major pilgrimage destination. The sanctuary was built to commemorate the apparitions and to accommodate the growing number of pilgrims.
You can visit the sanctuary in Portugal for spiritual, religious, or historical reasons.
Read also: Tourist Mistakes To Avoid When Visiting Portugal
Guimarães Castle, Guimarães
Considered the birthplace of Portugal, Guimarães Castle is a medieval castle located on a hilltop in the city of Guimarães in northern Portugal. It is associated with the nation’s early history and the foundation of the Portuguese identity. The castle’s historical significance and well-preserved medieval architecture make it a destination you should not miss when in Portugal.
Its imposing walls and towers offer a glimpse into the military architecture of the Middle Ages, making it an even more enchanting destination for history enthusiasts. When visiting, take the opportunity to learn about the nation’s origins, the life of its first king, and the historical events that shaped modern Portugal.
If you are not walking through the castle’s grounds, you can climb its towers and enjoy panoramic views of the city and the surrounding landscape.
Read also: Tourist Traps To Avoid in Portugal
Belém Tower (Torre de Belém), Lisbon
Located in Lisbon’s Belem District on the banks of the Tagus River, Belem Tower is a historic fortress, one of Lisbon’s most iconic landmarks, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This fortress is a perfect example of the Manueline architectural style characterized by ornate details, maritime motifs, and a blend of Gothic, Moorish, and Renaissance elements.
Belém Tower has served various functions throughout its history, including as a fortress, prison, and customs outpost. If you are interested in Portugal’s rich maritime history and architectural heritage, this is one landmark you will love visiting.
During your visit, don’t miss the intricate Manueline decorations, including ropes, knots, armillary spheres, and crosses of the Order of Christ. While at it, climb to the rooftop terrace for panoramic views of the Tagus River, the 25 de Abril Bridge, and the surrounding area. On the interior, you can explore the tower’s various rooms, including the Governor’s Hall, the King’s Hall, and the Audience Hall.
Read also: Lisbon Travel Guide
Batalha Monastery, Batalha
Batalha Monastery is one of Europe’s finest examples of Gothic architecture. This UNESCO World Heritage Site was built to commemorate the Portuguese victory over the Castilians at the Battle of Aljubarrota in 1385. The monastery’s intricate stonework, expansive cloisters, and beautiful stained glass windows are remarkable. It is also home to the Founder’s Chapel, which houses the tombs of King João I and his wife, Philippa of Lancaster, along with their famous son, Henry the Navigator.
Take time to marvel at the impressive yet incomplete Manueline chapels, which showcase impressive stonework and architectural prowess from different eras.
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