Padrao dos Descobrimentos (Monument to the Discoveries), Lisbon

Conceived as a temporary beacon for the 1940 Portuguese World Fair, the grand Monument to the Discoveries stands as one of Lisbon's prominent symbols, embodying a romanticized vision of the nation's history. It celebrates the courageous individuals who participated in the Age of Discovery, a period of exploration during the 15th and 16th centuries that helped dispel humanity's fear of the unknown.

Situated at the mouth of the Tagus River in Belém, from where countless ships once set sail on journeys to uncharted territories, the monument takes the form of a 52-meter-high concrete structure shaped like the prow of a ship. On its inland-facing side, a towering sword is intricately carved, extending the full height of the monument. At the forefront of a lineup of statues that includes King Alfonso V, Luís de Camões, Vasco de Gama, and other Portuguese heroes, a prominent statue of Henry the Navigator stands proudly.

Inside the monument, there is a small exhibition space that often showcases exhibits related to Lisbon's history. The admission fee also grants access to an elevator ride offering brilliant panoramic views. A good zoom on your camera is essential to capture the splendid cityscape, featuring the Tagus River, the '25th of April' Bridge, the Christ the King statue, Belém Tower, and the Jerónimos Monastery.

Tip:
Don't overlook the "Rosa-dos-Ventos" at the monument's base, consisting of a wind rose and an elaborately crafted mosaic map illustrating Portugal's world discoveries, with key overseas possessions marked, each bearing the date of its discovery. Although it was added 20 years after the monument's inauguration, it seamlessly integrates with the monument both thematically and aesthetically, making Portugal the center of the world, as one would expect.