Francisco de Arruda

Francisco de Arruda, (d. November 30, 1547), was a Portuguese architect and sculptor, most notable for his design of the Belém Tower in Lisbon, Portugal.

Built for Don Jaime, Duke of Bragança, the castle of Portel and the Capela de S. João Baptista have fallen into ruin.

Francisco accompanied his brother Diogo to North Africa, to Safi, Morocco and Mazagão, in order to work in the stronghold of Azemmour.

Diogo and Francisco de Arruda translated the Mediterranean and Nordic influences of late-Gothic to Portugal.

Characteristics include the use of cylindrical volumes; military references, and extensive decoration drawing from natural elements.