Jerónimos Monastery (Mosteiro dos Jerónimos) is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Lisbon’s most iconic monuments. This stunning Manueline-style monastery was built in the 16th century and is home to the tomb of Vasco da Gama, the famous explorer.
The intricate architecture, grand cloisters, and the Church of Santa Maria, where Vasco da Gama and King Manuel I are buried. It’s a short walk from the Belém Tower.
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Why Visit the Jerónimos Monastery?
Church of Santa Maria
The Church of Santa Maria is a breathtaking masterpiece of Portuguese Gothic architecture that leaves visitors in awe of its grandeur. The church’s interior is a visual feast for the eyes with its intricate carvings, ornate altars, and magnificent stained glass windows that allow the sunlight to filter in and create a stunning kaleidoscope of colors.
The highlight of the church is the tomb of the renowned explorer Vasco da Gama, which lies in the transept and is adorned with beautifully carved figures.
Chapter House
The Chapter House of the Jeronimos Monastery is a remarkable space that served as a meeting place for the monks in the past. Today, it is a fascinating tourist destination that never fails to impress visitors. The room is renowned for its intricate stonework and an exquisite ribbed vaulted ceiling that is sure to leave visitors in awe.
Along with the stunning architecture, the Chapter House is also famous for its exceptional stained glass windows.
Refectory
The Refectory, located in the Jeronimos Monastery, is an essential room where the monks used to gather and have their meals. The hall features a long table and benches, and the walls and ceiling are adorned with beautiful stonework and carvings. Visitors can also enjoy the magnificent 18th-century tile panels that depict different scenes from the life of St. Jerome.
The Refectory is a unique blend of historical and architectural features that visitors must experience during their visit to the Jeronimos Monastery.
Exhibition Rooms
In addition to the historic architecture and religious significance, the Jeronimos Monastery is also home to several exhibition rooms. The Maritime Museum is a popular attraction that highlights Portugal’s history of maritime exploration and trade. It features various displays and artifacts related to Portugal’s famous explorers like Vasco da Gama and Prince Henry the Navigator.
The Treasury Room is another noteworthy exhibition, which houses a collection of sacred objects and artifacts, including gold and silverware, jewelry, and other valuable religious items.
Archaeological Site
The archaeological site located beneath the church at the Jeronimos Monastery offers visitors a rare glimpse into the ancient past of the region. The site showcases the foundations of an old chapel and contains a range of tombs and artifacts that date back to the Roman era. Exploring this site is a must-do for history buffs and anyone interested in learning more about the region’s rich cultural heritage.
Getting to the Jerónimos Monastery
Jeronimos Monastery is located in the city of Lisbon, Portugal. It is situated in the Belem district, overlooking the Tagus River and close to famous landmarks such as the Belem Tower and the Monument to the Discoveries. The monastery is a prime example of Manueline architecture and is considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Getting to Jeronimos Monastery from the city center of Lisbon is easy and can be done using several transportation options:
1. By Tram:
– Get off at Algés stop, which is the closest stop to the monastery. The travel time is around 10-15 minutes, and the tram operates from 6 AM to 10 PM, but this may vary on weekends or holidays.
2. By Bus:
– To get to Jeronimos Monastery, take bus lines 727, 28, 729, 714, or 751 and alight at “Mosteiro dos Jerónimos” or “Belém/Jerónimos” stop.
– The bus runs from 6 AM to 9 PM with varying frequencies, and tickets are available onboard or at a nearby kiosk. The travel time is around 13-15 minutes.
3. By Train:
– Take the Cascais Line and end at the Belem station, which is the closest station to the tower. You will need to walk the rest of the way. The operating hours for the metro are typically from 6:30 AM to 1 AM, although this may vary on weekends or holidays.
4. By Taxi or Ride-Hailing (Uber/Lyft):
– A taxi or ride-hailing service like Uber will take about 15-20 minutes from the city center, depending on traffic.
– Cost: Expect to pay around €6-10, though prices can vary depending on the time of day.
5. Walking:
– If you’re feeling adventurous and enjoy a long walk, you can stroll along the riverfront.
– Walking from Lisbon’s city center (specifically Praça do Comércio) to the Jerónimos Monastery in Belém takes approximately 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes, covering around 6 to 7 kilometers (4 to 4.5 miles).
The route is scenic as it follows the Tagus River along the waterfront, passing landmarks such as Cais do Sodré and the Museum of Art, Architecture, and Technology (MAAT). It’s a pleasant walk if you enjoy strolling through Lisbon’s riverside neighborhoods, with opportunities to stop at cafes and parks along the way.
TravelerTip: If you want to avoid traffic, especially during peak hours, the tram or train options are your best bet.
Jeronimos Monastery Entrances
There are two primary entrances to the Jerónimos Monastery: the Church entrance and the Cloister entrance. The Church entrance is situated on the right-hand side of the Monastery and is exclusively for visitors interested in only visiting the Church.
On the other hand, the Cloister entrance is located on the left-hand side of the Monastery, facing the Jardim da Praça do Império, and visitors who want to explore the Cloisters and other parts of the Monastery can access it by following the signs or asking for directions.
What is the Cost to Enter the Jerónimos Monastery?
The cost to visit the Belém museum and climb the Belém Tower is $16.50 or €16.
Jerónimos Monastery Opening Hours
October – April: 10 AM to 5:30 PM
May – September: 10 AM to 6:30 PM
Closed: Mondays, 1st January, Easter Sunday, 1st May, 25th December.
Jerónimos Monastery Address
Address: Praça do Império 1400-206 Lisboa, Portugal
How can I Book a Ticket to the Jerónimos Monastery?
Visitor Tips for the Jerónimos Monastery
- Arrive early to avoid crowds and long queues.
- Wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking involved.
- Dress modestly, as the attraction is a religious site. Avoid shorts, short skirts, and sleeveless tops.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning architecture and details.
- Allocate at least 2-3 hours to explore the attraction fully.
- Use the audio guide or hire a tour guide for a more informative and immersive experience.
- Bring cash as some areas of the monastery do not accept credit cards.
- Consider visiting the attraction during the week to avoid large crowds on weekends.
What else is there to do around the Jerónimos Monastery?
The Belém district in Lisbon is packed with historical, cultural, and architectural landmarks, making it a wonderful area to explore after visiting the Jerónimos Monastery.
Here are some top things to do around the Belém area:
-
The Belém Tower (Portuguese: Torre de Belém) is one of Lisbon’s most iconic landmarks, located in the Belém district along the Tagus River.
This historic structure, built between 1514 and 1520 during the reign of King Manuel I, was originally constructed to defend the entrance to the city’s harbor and safeguard Lisbon from maritime threats.
2. Monument to the Discoveries (Padrão dos Descobrimentos)
– This striking monument on the riverbank celebrates the Age of Discovery and the Portuguese explorers who made important voyages to Africa, Asia, and South America.
– The monument’s design includes sculptures of famous explorers, including Vasco da Gama, Pedro Álvares Cabral, and Ferdinand Magellan. You can also visit the observation deck for stunning views of the river and surrounding landmarks.
3. MAAT (Museum of Art, Architecture, and Technology)
– The MAAT is a contemporary museum located on the riverfront. It explores the intersection of art, architecture, and technology through innovative exhibitions.
– The museum’s modern architecture is itself an attraction, with a wave-like design. There’s also an outdoor terrace that offers fantastic views of the river and the nearby **Belém Cultural Center**.
4. Belém Cultural Center (Centro Cultural de Belém)
– One of Lisbon’s premier cultural venues, the Belém Cultural Center hosts concerts, art exhibitions, theater performances, and other events.
– Visit the Berardo Collection Museum within the center, which showcases modern and contemporary art, including works by Picasso, Dali, and Warhol.
5. Pastéis de Belém (The Original Bakery)
– A visit to Belém isn’t complete without trying the famous Pastéis de Belém (custard tarts) from the original bakery, Antiga Confeitaria de Belém. The recipe for these tarts has been a closely guarded secret since 1837.
– Enjoy a delicious tart with a cup of coffee at this iconic pastry shop. It’s a must-try treat while in the Belém district.
TravelerTip:
To fully experience Belém, it’s best to allow at least half a day to visit the main attractions. Many of the sites are within walking distance of each other, and the beautiful parks and riverfront views make it a lovely area to explore at a leisurely pace.
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