Jeronimos Monastery
When visiting Lisbon, one sight you cannot miss is the Monasterio de los Jerónimos, a prime example of the Portuguese Gothic Manueline architectural style and an UNESCO World Heritage Sight. This iconic landmark, built in the early 16th century, encompasses not only the monastery itself but also the Iglesia de Santa Maria de Belén. Both are impressive and quintessential tourist attractions that provide a deep dive into Portugal's rich history and showcase the Manueline style that will follow us throughout our visit to Portugal.
How to Get There and Tickets
You can reach the Monasterio de los Jerónimos by taking tram 15E or bus 728 from Praça do Comércio. Keep in mind that this is a busy tourist area, so be extra cautious with your belongings on crowded transportation, as pickpockets often take advantage of these situations.
Both the monastery and the church can be accessed with the same ticket, which is included in the Lisboa Card. If you don’t have the card, the ticket costs €10. Considering that the Lisboa Card is €27 for a day, it’s a great deal if you plan to visit multiple attractions, including the Monasterio and use mass transit and the trams (also included in the card)
Expect to see a long line when you arrive, but don’t worry—it moves quickly, and the incredible sights inside are worth the wait.
Monasterio de los Jeronimos
Monasterio de los Jerónimos
Exterior and Historical Significance
As you approach the Monasterio de los Jerónimos, take a moment to admire the striking Manueline architecture from the outside. The intricate stonework and grand façade are testaments to Portugal's wealth and influence during the Age of Discoveries. Built in the early 1500s, this architectural gem reflects the nation's maritime power, funded by the riches from the spice trade and new territories. King Manuel I commissioned the monastery to commemorate Vasco da Gama's successful voyage to India and to honor the Virgin Mary.
A key feature of the monastery's exterior is its four prominent towers, two on each side of the structure. These towers, adorned with intricate carvings and pinnacles, are quintessential examples of the Manueline style, which incorporates maritime elements and ornate details. Specific nautical themes visible on the towers include:
Rope Motifs: The towers feature carved stone ropes, symbolizing the ropes used on ships, highlighting Portugal's naval prowess.
Crosses of the Order of Christ: These crosses reflect the historical connection between the Portuguese explorers and the military-religious Order of Christ, which played a significant role in supporting the voyages of discovery.
The towers enhance the grandeur of the building, contributing to its symmetrical beauty and architectural harmony. Each tower is crowned with elaborate spires that echo the nautical themes prevalent throughout the monastery, serving as a reminder of Portugal's seafaring heritage.
The main entrance, although not as intricate as the western entrance or the church entrance, still showcases the Manueline style with its elegant arches and decorative stonework. The symmetrical design of the entire façade, flanked by the towers, adds to the overall aesthetic harmony of the structure, creating a visually balanced and impressive exterior that sets the tone for the architectural splendor that awaits inside the monastery.
Interior and Highlights
The interior of the monastery is equally breathtaking. The two-story cloister is a masterpiece of Manueline architecture, showcasing the exuberant style that combines Gothic, Moorish, and Renaissance elements. The cloister’s ornate arches and balustrades are adorned with nautical motifs, symbolizing Portugal's seafaring heritage. As you walk through the cloister, notice the intricate carvings of sea creatures, ropes, and knots, all of which celebrate the maritime discoveries.
Refectory
You follow the tour path and you will get to the Refectory, a room where the monks used to gather and have their meals. Observe the impressive 18th-century tile panels that depict different scenes from the old and new testament. These beautiful azulejos (tiles) cover the walls, showcasing intricate designs and storytelling through art. The Refectory's serene ambiance, enhanced by these historical artworks, provides a glimpse into the daily life and spiritual reflections of the monks who once inhabited the monastery.
Chapter House
As you follow the tour, you'll visit the Chapter House, which Construction began in the 1500s, and the vaulted ceiling and interior decorations were completed in the 19th century. The Chapter House, also known as the Chapter Room, was the place where monks would regularly meet, beginning with a reading from the Book of Rules. This historic room now serves as a resting place for some of Portugal's most revered figures, adding to its cultural and historical significance.
One of the cloister’s most stunning features is the delicate tracery and the fine sculptural details that cover almost every surface. The carvings include floral patterns, religious symbols, and royal insignia, creating a tapestry of stone that is both intricate and harmonious. The cloister's serene atmosphere makes it a perfect place for reflection and appreciation of the artistry involved.
The stunning cloister of the Monasterio de los Jerónimos showcases the intricate Manueline architecture, with detailed carvings and serene surroundings.
Church: Igreja de Santa Maria de Belém
Exterior Features
The church’s exterior is equally captivating. Pay special attention to the elaborate sculptures at the south portal, which was beautifully carved by the artist João de Castilho around 1517. The intricate details on this portal are a prime example of the Manueline style.
At the center of the portal, above the doors, you will find the figures of the Virgin Mary and Baby Jesus (Virgen de los Reyes con el Niño Dios). This central scene is framed by angels, some of whom are depicted blowing trumpets. These celestial figures add a sense of divine music accompanying the holy scene.
The tympanum above the double doors presents two scenes from the life of Saint Jerome: on the left, the removal of the thorn from the lion's paw, and on the right, the saint's experience in the desert. Between these scenes, you will find the coat of arms of King Manuel I. The entire arch above the door, known as the archivolt, and the tympanum are adorned with various Manueline symbols and elements, reflecting the architectural style's richness and complexity.
At the very top of the portal is a statue of the Archangel Michael. Michael, as a celestial warrior and protector, fittingly crowns the entrance, symbolizing divine protection and strength. His presence reinforces the spiritual significance and majestic nature of this sacred place.
The south portal of the Igreja de Santa Maria de Belém, featuring intricate Manueline details, statues of significant saints, a central scene of the Virgin Mary with the Baby Jesus surrounded by angels, and the statue of Henry the Navigator at the top.
Interior Grandeur
Statues of King Manuel I and Saint Jerome at the main entrance of the Monastery of Jerónimos, Lisbon
You enter the church through the magnificent axial portico by Nicolau de Chanterene, dating from 1517. Above the portal are three niches with groups of statues representing scenes from the birth of Christ. Note, on the left, the statue of Manuel I, and standing behind him is Saint Jerome, providing divine guidance to the Monarch (photo) The detailed stonework and symbolic figures set the tone for the grandeur and historical significance that await inside.
Stepping inside the Igreja de Santa Maria de Belém (Church of Santa Maria de Belén), you are immediately struck by the grandeur and beauty of the main nave. The vaulted ceiling, supported by intricately carved octagonal pillars, rises majestically, drawing the eye upward to the detailed patterns and decorative elements of the ribbed star vaulting. This awe-inspiring space is a testament to the skilled artistry of the Manueline period.
Despite the devastation caused by the 1755 Lisbon earthquake, the Jerónimos Monastery a withstood the catastrophe with minimal damage. Only the balustrade and part of the high choir were affected, and these were quickly repaired
As you begin to walk counter clockwise through the church, the first notable sight is the tomb of Luís de Camões in the second chapel. Camões, a towering figure in Portuguese literature, is best known for his epic poem "The Lusiads," which celebrates the maritime explorations and adventures of Portugal. His works have left a lasting legacy on Portuguese culture and language.
The tomb, seen in the photo, is a beautiful example of Manueline artistry, crafted by the sculptor Costa Mota (Tio) in 1894. It features intricate carvings of floral patterns and maritime symbols, alluding to Camões' connection to the Age of Discoveries. The sarcophagus is adorned with twisted ropes and heraldic motifs, resting on six lion statues, three on each side. Above, the recumbent effigy of Camões lies with his hands in a prayerful position, resting on a pillow. The stained glass window behind the tomb adds a serene and reverent atmosphere, casting a soft, colored light onto the stone.
The tomb of Luís de Camões in the Igreja de Santa Maria de Belém, sculpted by Costa Mota (Tio) in 1894, adorned with intricate Manueline carvings and symbols, celebrating the life and works of Portugal's greatest poet.
As we continue to walk on the right side, look at the beautiful stained glass windows. The stained glass window seen here is a magnificent example of vibrant colors and intricate design. The upper part of the window depicts various biblical and royal figures in vivid detail. The lower section features the coat of arms of Portugal, held by two angels, one dressed in green and the other in blue.
The intricate border is adorned with floral and geometric patterns, showcasing the craftsmanship and artistic skill of the period.
The light filtering through the stained glass creates a mesmerizing display of colors, adding to the spiritual ambiance of the church.
We reach the south chapel, where we find the tabernacle and, on the upper wall, the monumental sarcophagus of Don Sebastião de Mateus de Couto (1692).
We turn left towards the main altar. Take a look once more up at the spectacular nave, supported by intricately carved octagonal pillars, and gaze at the crossing with its daring vault featuring a complex ribbed system designed by João de Castilho in 1522.
Take your time to admire the side altars. I found the altar of Nuestra Señora del Carmen particularly touching; you can see the serene and compassionate expression of the Virgin, her bright violet habit standing out prominently. The statues of Saint John of the Cross and Saint Teresa of Jesus, founders of the Carmelite order, are positioned on either side of the Virgin, adding a sense of solemnity and reverence to the altar. The ornate background with its rich colors and detailed carvings enhances the overall spiritual and aesthetic experience.
Main Altar
We reach the main altar. The main chapel was commissioned by Queen Catherine of Austria, wife of João III, in 1571. This altar follows a Mannerist style, which emerged later than the Manueline style and is characterized by exaggerated proportions, complex compositions, and a lack of clear perspective. This style contrasts with the Manueline style of the rest of the church. The magnificent polyptych represents the steps of the Passion of Christ. The tabernacle is plated with engraved silver, with a bas-relief of the Adoration of the Magi on its door. The paintings, dating from the 17th century, depict the Passion of Christ and the Adoration of the Magi. The side walls house the tombs of members of Portuguese royalty, including Catherine of Austria, who commissioned the altar.
Main altar of Igreja de Santa Maria de Belém, Lisbon, in Mannerist style, featuring 17th-century paintings and royal tombs.
As we continue to walk along the north side, we reach the sacristy, which requires an additional nominal entrance fee of 1.5 euros, and it is well worth it. The sacristy was built between 1517 and 1520, according to the original plan of the architect João de Castilho. It features an architectural curiosity: the vaulted ceiling is supported by a single central Renaissance column, where traces of an old hand basin can be seen. The furniture includes a 16th-century wooden chest where church vestments are kept. The black panel has a collection of 14 oil paintings (1600-1610) by Simão Rodrigues, representing scenes from the life of Saint Jerome.
As you leave the sacristy, let's walk towards the exit on the other side of the church. Stop by the impressive high choir that predates the year 1551 and admire the artistry of the woodwork on the chairs. Take a moment to take it all in and admire the nave for a last time.
You reach the tomb of Vasco da Gama, which includes symbols related to the discoveries—a cross, a caravel, and an armillary sphere. Like the tomb of Luís de Camões, it is crafted by Costa Mota (Tio) and supported by six lion heads. The intricate details on the tomb reflect the maritime heritage and the significant voyages of Vasco da Gama.
The next and final chapel is a true treat that concludes this memorable tour. La Capilla del Señor de los Pasos, crafted in gilded wood by José Rodrigues Ramalho and José Ferreira de Araújo in 1704, is a stunning display of Baroque artistry. The chapel houses the processional image of the Señor de los Pasos, also known as the Lord of the Steps, representing Jesus carrying the cross during the Stations of the Cross.
The intricate gilded carvings and the religious imagery surrounding the altar create a profound sense of devotion and artistry, making it a fitting conclusion to the tour.
Capilla del Señor de los Pasos in gilded wood, featuring the processional image of Señor de los Pasos.
As we leave the chapel, cross the street and walk through the Jardim da Praça do Império to see the impressive Monasterio from different perspectives and great panoramic shots. Stroll through the garden, taking in the beauty and feeling grateful to have experienced such an enduring marvel.
I hope you enjoyed the blog and that it helps you appreciate your visit even more. You can follow our YouTube video for commentary during your tour or bookmark this page on your mobile. The blog is mobile-ready for easy reading on the go.
