In a city filled with captivating landmarks, Jeronimos Monastery is often at the top of most people’s must-see list in Lisbon. Some 2.5 million people make it a point to visit every year and if you’re visiting Lisbon you’re likely interested as well. But with so many things to fill your itinerary in Lisbon, is it worth the hype? Is Jeronimos Monastery worth visiting?
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IS JERONIMOS MONASTERY WORTH A VISIT?
Yes, Jeronimos Monastery is worth a visit! This historical landmark is an awe-inspiring testament to Portugal’s rich history and architectural skill. With its Portuguese Gothic architecture, the UNESCO World Heritage site promises an enriching experience, making it an absolute must-see for history and culture enthusiasts alike.
WHY VISIT JERONIMOS MONASTERY
History
The deep history of The Jeronimos Monastery extends way back to the 16th century. It was commissioned by King Manuel I in 1501 and was built to commemorate Vasco da Gama’s successful voyage to India. It was created in the Manueline style which highlights intricate detailing and decorations throughout.
Jeronimos Monastery through the years was the site of significant burials including that of King Manuel I as well as Vasco da Gama.
This is also the site of many historic events such as the signing of the Treaty of Lisbon in 1668 which marked the end of the Portuguese Restoration War which resulted in Portuguese independence from Spain.
Architecture
The architecture of the Monastery is the main draw. Built in a Portuguese Gothic style with Manueline-style carving and decorations, Jeronimos Monastery is an architectural marvel.
The many carvings highlight maritime themes and religious symbols which have played a key role in Portugal’s rich history.
You will find immaculate designs both inside the Monastery in its spacious halls as well as the facade of the building.
Views
The main part of the Monastery is largely empty, leaving the focus on the spectacular design of the building. There is an upper and lower level in the shape of a square with an open courtyard in the center.
There are several chapels off of the main hallways that you are free to enter. Wherever you are in the Monastery, the views are fascinating especially as you observe the designs down the corridors and can see across the courtyard to the other side of the interior.
Photo Ops
Jeronimos Monastery is a stunning place to take photos. There is plenty of space in the hallways and since it’s an open-air structure. On a sunny day, the sunlight beams in perfectly. It’s easy to get great photos along the corridors or closer to the courtyard where the light is coming in.
UNESCO Recognition
The cultural and historical importance of the site led it to be recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983. This acknowledgment is significant and shows just how remarkable the Monastery is.
JERONIMOS MONASTERY FACTS
- The intricate carvings on the facade include rhinoceroses and elephants.
- The monastery is also known as the “Royal Monastery of Santa Maria de Belem”.
- The cloisters include maritime motifs and depictions of sailors, sea monsters, and nautical elements.
- Renowned Portuguese poet and writer Fernando Pessoa is buried in Jeronimos Monastery.
- During World War II the Monastery served as a field hospital.
- Vasco de Gama was initially buried in India but was later transferred to Jeronimos Monastery.
- The Manueline design goes beyond the facade and extends inside the church, including seafaring scenes, celestial maps, and symbols of the Order of Christ.
- The Chapter House features an impressive eight-sided ceiling.
- The Jeronimos Monastery was featured on the Portuguese 500 Escudo banknote which was in circulation from 1997 to 2002.
- One of the wings of the Monastery now features a Maritime Museum and there is also the Church of Santa Maria on the grounds.
OUR FAMILY’S VISIT
Our family got the chance to visit the Jeronimos Monastery and it was a phenomenal experience. Even though the Monastery is empty, we were thoroughly fascinated by the intricate designs featured throughout.
We also loved the indoor/outdoor nature of the monastery which featured a beautiful central courtyard.
Our visit was on a June weekday afternoon, so the crowds were manageable. We never felt rushed or cramped during our visit. This made it easy to take our time, admire our surroundings, and take as many pics as we wanted.
Our visit was about an hour and a half and we probably would’ve stayed longer but we came up against closing time.
HOW LONG DO YOU NEED FOR JERONIMOS MONASTERY?
During our visit we took just over an hour and a half and we were happy with what we saw. We took our time and wandered around the main corridors, admiring the views and also went inside the chapels that were just off of the main corridors.
We didn’t make it to the Church of Santa Maria so if you want to see that, you’ll have to allow more time for that as well.
All together, you can take your time and easily see everything in an hour and half to two hours.
HOW TO GET TO THERE
Even though Jeronimos Monastery is located in the district of Belem just outside the main city center, it is easy to get to. Some modern trams and buses will take you from the center of the city to the Monastery in about 30 minutes or so.
On our trip, we took the modern tram, 15E and it dropped us off right near the monastery. The 728 bus will take you as well.
ADDITIONAL TIPS FOR VISITING JERONIMOS MONASTERY
To make the most of your visit to Jerónimos Monastery, timing and preparation are key. Here are some helpful tips:
- Best Time to Visit: Plan your visit on a weekday, preferably Monday or Tuesday, to avoid the weekend crowds. Arriving early, around 10 AM when the monastery opens, provides a more peaceful experience before the midday rush.
- Ticket Information: Entry to the Church of Santa Maria is free, but visiting the cloisters and museum requires a ticket. General admission is €10, with combined tickets available for nearby attractions like Belém Tower. Children under 12 enjoy free entry.
- Avoiding Crowds: Purchase your tickets online in advance to skip the long lines. Alternatively, the Lisboa Card provides free entry and priority access, saving you both time and money.
- Accessibility: The monastery is wheelchair-accessible with ramps and elevators, making it convenient for all visitors.
GET TICKETS TO JERONIMOS MONASTERY
The best way to gain entrance to the Monastery is to purchase them online. When we purchased our tickets online, we were still required to stand in a regular line to enter so make sure that you purchase skip the line tickets if you want that option.
You can purchase the basic entry ticket here.
And several other types of tours are available including audio tours and tours that combine other activities in Lisbon.
ENJOY YOUR VISIT TO JERONIMOS MONASTERY
Jeronimos Monastery is an architectural marvel, one of the best in Lisbon. It’s well worth the time to visit the area and see for yourself. As beautiful as the Jeronimos Monastery is, there is so much more to see in Lisbon, so make sure that you plan your trip well. The Belem Tower is nearby so why not make a day of it! Also check out the itinerary that our family used on our amazing trip to Lisbon so that you don’t miss a thing!
