Jerónimos Monastery

Jerónimos Monastery, also known as the Monastery of St. Jerome, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most popular tourist attractions in Lisbon, Portugal. It is a masterpiece of Manueline architecture, a unique Portuguese style that combines Gothic, Moorish, and Renaissance elements.

The monastery was built in the early 16th century to commemorate the return of Vasco da Gama from his historic voyage to India. It was commissioned by King Manuel I, who wanted to create a monument to Portugal's newfound wealth and power.

The monastery's church is the most impressive part of the complex. It is a vast and ornate space, with soaring ceilings and intricate stonework. The main altar is decorated with a stunning altarpiece made of gold and silver.

The church is also the final resting place of Vasco da Gama and other famous Portuguese figures, including King Manuel I and his family.

In addition to the church, the monastery also has a cloister, a refectory, and a library. The cloister is a beautiful garden courtyard with two tiers of arcades. The refectory is a large hall where the monks once ate their meals. The library is one of the oldest libraries in Portugal and houses a collection of rare books and manuscripts.

History of Jerónimos Monastery

The construction of Jerónimos Monastery began in 1502 and was completed in 1520. It was designed by the architect Diogo Boitaca, who was inspired by the Gothic style of architecture. However, Boitaca also incorporated elements of Moorish and Renaissance architecture into the design.

The monastery was funded by King Manuel I, who used the wealth that Portugal had gained from its maritime discoveries. The construction of the monastery took 18 years and required the labor of thousands of workers.

When the monastery was completed, it was one of the largest and most impressive buildings in Portugal. It was also a symbol of Portugal's newfound wealth and power.

Manueline Architecture

Jerónimos Monastery is a prime example of Manueline architecture, a unique Portuguese style that combines Gothic, Moorish, and Renaissance elements. Manueline architecture is characterized by its intricate stonework, which often features nautical motifs, such as ropes, anchors, and shells.

The monastery's main facade is a stunning example of Manueline architecture. It is decorated with a profusion of carved stonework, including nautical motifs, religious symbols, and the coat of arms of King Manuel I.

The interior of the church is also decorated with Manueline architecture. The main altar is particularly impressive, with its altarpiece made of gold and silver.

Jerónimos Monastery Today

Jerónimos Monastery is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Lisbon. It is visited by millions of people each year.

The monastery is open to the public from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, seven days a week. Admission is free for children under the age of 6. For everyone else, admission is €10.00.

What to See at Jerónimos Monastery

Here are some of the highlights of Jerónimos Monastery:

• Church: The church is the most impressive part of the monastery complex. It is a vast and ornate space, with soaring ceilings and intricate stonework. The main altar is decorated with a stunning altarpiece made of gold and silver.
• Cloister: The cloister is a beautiful garden courtyard with two tiers of arcades. It is a great place to relax and enjoy the peace and quiet of the monastery.
• Refectory: The refectory is a large hall where the monks once ate their meals. It is now used for exhibitions and cultural events.
• Library: The library is one of the oldest libraries in Portugal and houses a collection of rare books and manuscripts.

How to Get to Jerónimos Monastery

Jerónimos Monastery is located in the Belém district of Lisbon. It is easily accessible by public transportation. The monastery is served by the Belém tram stop, which is on the 15E tram line.

Tips for Visiting Jerónimos Monastery

Here are some tips for visiting Jerónimos Monastery:

• Wear comfortable shoes: You will be doing a lot of walking, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes.
• Bring a hat and sunscreen: The monastery is located in an open area, so it can be hot and sunny, especially in the summer.
• Be respectful of the monks: Jerónimos Monastery is still a functioning monastery, so be respectful of the monks and their religious practices.
• Don't miss the details: Jerónimos Monastery is full of intricate details, so take your time to explore and admire them.

The Jerónimos Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is renowned for its stunning Manueline architecture and rich historical significance. When visiting this magnificent monument in Lisbon, there are several points of interest to explore:

1. Manueline Architecture: The monastery is a masterpiece of Manueline architecture, known for its intricate and ornate details. The façade is adorned with maritime motifs, botanical elements, and religious symbols, reflecting Portugal's Age of Exploration.

2. Church of Santa Maria: The church within the monastery is a remarkable example of late Gothic architecture. It houses the tombs of prominent historical figures, including Vasco da Gama, the famed Portuguese explorer.

3. Cloisters: The monastery's cloisters are a masterpiece of stone carving, with delicate arches, columns, and intricate decorations. The two-story complex of cloisters is a serene and peaceful place to explore.

4. The South Portal: The intricate south portal of the monastery features religious sculptures, including depictions of the Virgin Mary, Saint Jerome, and various saints.

5. The Chapter House: This room within the monastery is a remarkable space with a beautiful rib-vaulted ceiling. It was once used for important meetings and ceremonies.

6. The Refectory: The refectory is where the monks would eat their meals. It features beautiful tilework and a serene atmosphere.

7. Museu Nacional de Arqueologia: Located nearby, this museum is known for its extensive collection of archaeological artifacts from Portugal and other parts of the world. It's an excellent complement to the visit to the Jerónimos Monastery.

8. Belém Tower: Just a short walk from the monastery, Belém Tower is another iconic historical structure worth visiting. It served as a defensive fortification and played a significant role during Portugal's Age of Exploration.

9. Monument to the Discoveries: Nearby, you'll find a monument honoring Portuguese explorers. You can also enter and explore the monument's interior.

10. Belém Cultural Center: This contemporary cultural center often hosts exhibitions, concerts, and events, providing a contrast to the historical surroundings.

11. Belém Gardens: The monastery is surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens and parks, offering a peaceful place to relax and take in the serene ambiance.

Visiting the Jerónimos Monastery and its surrounding attractions provides a rich cultural and historical experience, making it a must-visit destination for those interested in Portugal's heritage and architectural history.

The Jerónimos Monastery, also known as Mosteiro dos Jerónimos in Portuguese, is located in the Belém district of Lisbon, Portugal. It stands in the western part of the city, near the Tagus River, and is easily accessible from the city center. The full address is:

Jerónimos Monastery (Mosteiro dos Jerónimos)
Praça do Império
1400-206 Lisboa
Portugal

This magnificent monastery is situated in a historic and picturesque area that is home to various other notable attractions, including the Belém Tower and the Monument to the Discoveries, making it a popular destination for tourists interested in Portugal's rich history and architecture.