The Jerónimos Monastery is an essential fixture in Portuguese history.

If you are considering traveling to Lisbon, you should check out the Belém District. One of the most popular things to visit in this district is the Belém Tower. However, there are a few other things you can do nearby. 

About Jerónimos Monastery

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The Jerónimos Monastery (Mosteiro dos Jerónimos), also known as the Hieronymites Monastery, is an iconic 16th-century monastery in Lisbon, along with the nearby Tower of Belém, is one of the most visited sites in Lisbon.

Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site with the Tower of Belem (1983), the impressive symbolism of the Jerónimos Monastery showcases Portugal’s previous power and wealth during the Age of Discovery.

History of Jerónimos Monastery

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The Jerónimos Monastery superseded the church formerly existing in the exact location. The dedication of this location was to Santa Maria de Belém. In 1502, King Manuel I ordered the Jerónimos Monastery to be built to honor the successful voyage to India of celebrated Portuguese explorer Vasco Da Gama. (Da Gama and his crew had spent their last night in Portugal in prayer before they left). The monastery took around 100 years to build and is a beautiful example of Portuguese late Gothic architecture.

Monks of the Order of Saint Jerome (Hieronymites) initially populated the monastery. Their spiritual job was to guide sailors and pray for the king’s soul. In 1833, the religious orders were dissolved, and the monks abandoned the monastery.

Later, the monastery became the final resting place for members of the Portuguese royal family. Vasco Da Gama and King Manuel are buried both at the Jerónimos Monastery as other prominent figures such as King Sebastião and poets Fernando Pessoa and Alexandre Herculano.

The Jerónimos Monastery Today

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This building at the Jerónimos Monastery is appreciated for its ornate exterior and stunning Manueline architecture – the finest example of Manueline architecture in Portugal – a style that glorifies the great ‘discoveries’ of the age. Especially eye-catching are the richly detailed columns carved with maritime symbols and the unique double-story cloister design, housing delicately scalloped arches, twisting turrets, gargoyles, and columns intertwined with leaves, vines, and knots.

The abbey’s highlight is the vast Refectory hall that served as the dining area for the monks, decorated with beautiful 16th-century azulejo panels, and with the Lion Fountain outside, where the monks washed their hands before meals. Outside the big church’s interior is a garden that leads to a small park faced by a row of pretty 16th-century houses.

In addition to seeing Jerónimos Monastery, visitors can also view the museums to which the monastery is now home, including the National Archaeological Museum and the Maritime Museum.

Small wonder then that it’s one of our picks for Portugal’s top historical sites.

Getting to Jerónimos Monastery

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Although the location of the Monastery is not in the city’s heart, it’s very easily accessible. To get there, you can take the:

• TRAIN – take the Cascáis train line. It departs from the Cais do Sodré station. After three stops, get off at Belem station. Travel time is approximately 7 minutes.
• TRAM #s 15, 15E, or 127 – the trams depart from Praça da Figueira. They connect the central portion of the city to the Belem district. The travel time is approximately 30 minutes as you head toward Algés Jardim. You will want to off at either Largo da Princesa or Mosteiro dos Jerónimos. 
• YELLOW HOP-ON HOP-OFF BUS – the route is called the “Tagus Tour.” It departs from Praça da Figueira. Check the courses and get your pass here. 

NOTE: If you travel by car, please keep in mind there is limited street parking nearby.

Jerónimos Monastery Hours

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October-April opening hours: 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM. 

The last entry is at 5 PM.

May-September opening hours: 10:00 AM to 6:30 PM. 

The last entry is at 6 PM.

Closed on: Mondays, 1st of January, 1st of May, Christmas Day, and Easter Sunday.

Atypical Last Thoughts

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