Just four miles from the center of Lisbon, Belem (or Santa Maria de Belem) is best known for Belem Tower (or Torre), a 16th-century fortified lighthouse built to guard the port. This was, after all, the port from which famous Portuguese navigators like Vasco de Gama set off to explore the world. The area is also home to Belem Palace, built in the 16th century by King Manuel and now the official residence of Portugal’s president. Belem is also home to the magnificent Jerónimos Monastery.