Construction of the fort in Belém began in 1780 under the guidance of General Guilherme de Vallerée. It was designed with a polygonal layout on the right bank of the River Tagus, strategically positioned to defend the city of Lisbon. As part of the fort's development, a residence for the fort's governor was added within its perimeter. The construction work progressed steadily, and according to an inscription over the main entrance, the fort was completed in 1802.

During the French occupation of Lisbon in 1808, under the command of Marshal Junot, the Fort of Bom Sucesso was linked to the Belém Tower through an artillery battery known as the left flank battery. Following the defeat of the French forces, a right flank was added to the fort in 1815, further enhancing its defensive capabilities.

Over time, the fort fell into a state of disrepair, and by 1836, it was largely abandoned. However, in 1870, extensive modernization efforts were undertaken to restore and reinforce the fort. These renovations continued until 1874 when the fort was equipped with two Krupp 28 cm Haubitze L/12 howitzers. The Fort of Bom Sucesso became one of the forts comprising the Campo Entrincheirado (Entrenched Field) of Lisbon, a defensive perimeter encircling the city based on its contemporary boundaries. Later, the fort's defense system included five 120mm Schneider cannons.

The fort's historical significance did not end there. During the failed coup attempt of May 18, 1925, an attack was launched against the Fort of Bom Sucesso. It also played a vital role during the Portuguese Colonial War (1961-1975) when it served as the headquarters of the Military Postal Service. After the Carnation Revolution on April 25, 1974, which led to the overthrow of the authoritarian Estado Novo regime, the fort became the base for the Command of the Military Intervention Group. This group was established by the Revolutionary Council to maintain law and order during the transitional period. Additionally, it later served as the headquarters for the Association of 25th of April, an organization that united the military personnel involved in the Carnation Revolution.

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In January 1999, the Fort of Bom Sucesso was officially handed over to the Portuguese League of Combatants, an organization dedicated to honoring and supporting combatants. The league transformed the fort into the Museu do Combatente, a museum that pays tribute to the contributions and sacrifices made by Portuguese combatants throughout history. The museum offers a captivating permanent exhibition housed within the fort's walls. It showcases artifacts, photographs, and documents related to World War I, the colonial campaigns (known as the overseas campaigns in Portugal), and peace missions.

Visitors to the Combatant's Museum can explore the exhibition, delving into the stories of brave men and women who fought in various conflicts. The museum also features three external areas where visitors can observe equipment and machinery associated with different branches of the Portuguese Armed Forces. Additionally, the museum provides social spaces for relaxation, conference rooms for educational events, and a bar where visitors can enjoy refreshments.

The Fort of Bom Sucesso stands as a testament to Portugal's rich military history and the dedication of its combatants. With its imposing structure, strategic location, and engaging museum, it invites visitors to step back in time and gain insights into the nation's past. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a military buff, or simply someone seeking to understand Portugal's heritage, a visit to the Fort of Bom Sucesso and the Combatant's Museum is a must. It offers an immersive experience that combines historical significance, cultural exploration, and educational enrichment.

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