Lisbon, Belem

Today we headed up the coast to Belem, first stop was at Pastis de Belem for some famous pastels de nata (custard tart) and duck empanada, and a few other delicious bites, all were were fantastic and the pastry was perfect. The pastel de nata were creamy, vanilla, not too sweet, warm and had very crispy laminated pastry.
We then headed to the seafront to view the Monument of the Discoveries and Belam Tower. The monument is where they farewelled the explorers, and commemorates the 500th anniversary of the death of Henry the Navigator, who discovered the West African Coast. It is a very powerful and impressive monument. The Belem Tower was a 16th century fortification, a ceremonial gateway to the city of Lisbon, and a guard post.
The monastery of Jeronimos also a very impressive building that was funded by taxing the spice trade 5%. The entry line was soooo long, at least 2 hours, maybe 3. So we went in to the adjacent church instead, Santa Maria de Belem church, which has Gothic architecture, the church also houses the tomb of Vasco de Gama, the explorer.
Then we took the bus home after being drenched by a heavy shower of rain. A great day!Read more