For a fortress, the tower has a surprisingly rich exterior with beautiful sculpted balconies and fine limestone ornaments, a testament to the wealth Portugal experienced during the Manueline era. The tower consists of a six-sided base with Moorish style turrets at each corner. A battery of canons were placed here. The cross-vaulted basement was later used as a prison. The terrace above the basement is decorated with a statue of Mary and child that is meant to protect seafarers.The upper floors of the tower contained the armory and private residences. Most interesting are the royal residences on the second floor, featuring a beautiful Italianate loggia with sculpted columns and several balconies with intricate carvings. On top of the upper floor is another terrace, which offers beautiful views over Belém and the Tagus river.