When Portugal ruled the seas, Belem Tower was the last sight Portuguese sailors glimpsed as they left their native land. It sat in the middle of the water, protecting the harbor.  When I saw it today, I thought about the courage it took to sail off into the unknown. What fueled it? Curiosity, greed, necessity, faith? Probably all of the above, depending upon the sailor.  

Less than a mile away, the Monument of the Discoveries celebrates Portugal’s seafaring tradition and the famous explorers, like Vasco de Gama (who’s buried in the stunning Monastery of Jeronimos located nearby), who made it happen. It’s a grand display. But far more moving to me is Belem Tower. Many looked upon its ancient stones, shed tears and mumbled prayers. Some of them returned, but many did not.