Vasco da Gama Tower (Torre Vasco da Gama)

This remarkable structure, situated on the north bank of the Tagus River and in the vibrant district of Parque das Nações, pays homage to the renowned Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama, who became the first European to sail to India in 1498.

Constructed in 1998 for the Expo '98 World's Fair, the Vasco da Gama Tower quickly became an iconic landmark in Lisbon's skyline. During the Expo, the tower was accompanied by a three-story building that served as the European Union Pavilion, showcasing a blend of modern architecture and innovation.

At the time of its completion, the Vasco da Gama Tower held the distinction of being the tallest structure in Portugal accessible to the public, excluding bridges. Its awe-inspiring height and captivating design drew visitors from around the world, providing panoramic views of the city and the picturesque Tagus River.

In the years following the Expo, the tower's base was intended for office space but failed to secure tenants. Instead, it became a venue for special events, including the world premiere of the new Mini car in 2001. However, in October 2004, both the observation deck and the restaurant suspended their operations.

In 2006, the tower gained additional recognition when Alain Robert, a renowned urban climber, successfully scaled its vertical heights. Sponsored by Optimus Telecommunications, this daring feat captivated the public's imagination and served as a unique mobile marketing campaign.

The evolution of the Vasco da Gama Tower continued in 2007 when the base of the building was demolished to make way for the construction of a luxurious 5-star hotel, the Myriad. Designed by Portuguese architect Nuno Leónidas, this 20-floor hotel offers 178 rooms and offers a seamless blend of comfort, elegance, and stunning views.

In 2018, the tower's former observation deck found a new purpose as the Fifty Seconds panoramic restaurant, helmed by acclaimed chef Martín Berasategui. Within a year, this exceptional dining destination achieved its first Michelin star, enticing both locals and international visitors with its culinary delights and breathtaking vistas.

Architecturally, the Vasco da Gama Tower is a masterpiece created by a collaborative team. The architects involved in its design, including Leonor Janeiro, Nick Jacobs, and SOM (Skidmore, Owings and Merrill), drew inspiration from the shape of a caravel and its sail. The tower's base resembles the bow of a boat, gracefully extending into the river, supported by pillars that form a terrace. The lower levels feature exhibition spaces and a vestibule that provides access to panoramic elevators, connecting the tower to the restaurant and viewing platform. The tower itself is defined by a vertical "mast" and a striking metallic, tubular "sail." At the top, a 120-meter platform forms a "crow's nest," which houses the rotating restaurant and offers visitors a captivating vantage point.

Today, the Vasco da Gama Tower stands as an architectural marvel, captivating visitors with its impressive stature and offering an unforgettable dining experience at its Michelin-starred restaurant. It symbolizes the spirit of exploration and innovation, paying tribute to the remarkable achievements of Vasco da Gama while providing a unique perspective on the vibrant city of Lisbon.