Padrao dos Descobrimentos Monument to the Discoveries is a large monument which stands on the banks of the river Tagus in Lisbon. On the inside, there is a lower level with a museum and exhibition space and also a lift which takes you to the viewing area at the top. Most visitors are only really here for the view to be honest, but the monument itself is striking and the statues are impressive if you take the time to look at them closely.
We ended up carrying our 3 year old in our arms so that he could get some kind of experience up there. There is a stunning fountain in the Jardim da Praca do Imperio which constantly changes its water formation and you can see its various displays quite clearly from the top of the monument. Looking to the west pictured above you can see the river walkway leading to the historic Belem Tower.
Other sights in Belem that you can make out from the tower include the Botanic Gardens, the very modern MAAT museum where you will see people on the roof and the National Palace where the president lives. Padrao dos Descobrimentos Monument to the Discoveries is open daily from 10am, closing at 7pm in the summer months and 6pm in the winter months.
Adult admission for the viewing area is 6 Euros prices. Address: Padrao dos Descobrimentos, Av. You only need to zap once on entry.
