Mosteiro dos Jeronimos, Portugal: History, Amazing Facts and Things to Do
Located in the heart of Lisbon, Portugal, Mosteiro dos Jeronimos is one of the most iconic landmarks in the country. Built in the 16th century as a monastery, the building is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a major tourist attraction. The monastery is a stunning example of Manueline architecture, a style that was popular in Portugal during the Age of Discovery.
History
Mosteiro dos Jeronimos was built in the early 16th century by King Manuel I of Portugal. It was built as a monastery to honor the patron saint of Lisbon, St. Jerome, and to commemorate the successful return of Vasco da Gama from India. The monastery was built in the Manueline style, which was a Portuguese architectural style that combined Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque elements. The construction of the monastery took over a century to complete, and it was finally finished in 1640.
The monastery was a major center of religious and spiritual life in Portugal for centuries. It housed a library, a hospital, and a school. It was also the burial site of many famous Portuguese figures, including King Manuel I, Vasco da Gama, and poet Luis de Camoes. The monastery was badly damaged by the 1755 earthquake, but it was restored in the 19th century.
In 1983, the monastery was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Today, it is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Portugal.
Amazing Facts
Mosteiro dos Jeronimos is one of the most iconic monuments in Portugal. Here are some amazing facts about this amazing building:
• The monastery was built in the Manueline style, which was a Portuguese style of architecture that combined Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque elements.
• The construction of the monastery took over a century to complete, and it was finally finished in 1640.
• The monastery was a major center of religious and spiritual life in Portugal for centuries. It housed a library, a hospital, and a school.
• The monastery was badly damaged by the 1755 earthquake, but it was restored in the 19th century.
• The monastery was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983.
Things to Do
Mosteiro dos Jeronimos is a popular tourist destination in Portugal. Here are some things to do at the monastery:
• Explore the monastery: Take a guided tour of the monastery and explore its beautiful architecture.
• Visit the museum: The monastery houses a museum which showcases artifacts from its long history.
• Attend a religious service: Mosteiro dos Jeronimos is still a functioning religious site, and visitors can attend services there.
• Admire the gardens: The monastery has beautiful gardens which are open to the public.
• Take a boat tour: Take a boat tour of the Tagus River and admire the monastery from the water.
Mosteiro dos Jeronimos is a stunning example of Manueline architecture and a must-see destination in Portugal. Whether you’re a history buff or just looking for a beautiful place to visit, the monastery is sure to impress.