Jerónimos Monastery travel guide

The Jerónimos Monastery, a stunning example of Manueline architecture, was commissioned in 1501 by King Manuel I of Portugal.

The monastery was established as a home for the Order of Saint Jerome, a religious order tasked with praying for the King’s eternal soul and providing spiritual guidance to sailors and explorers departing from the nearby port of Belém.

Construction of the monastery took over a century, spanning the reigns of several Portuguese monarchs. Funded by wealth from Portugal's global discoveries during the Age of Exploration, the monastery stands as a symbol of Portugal's Age of Discovery.

In 1983, UNESCO officially recognised Jerónimos Monastery as a World Heritage Site, acknowledging its historical and cultural significance. Today, it remains a proud symbol of Lisbon's rich history and architectural grandeur.

Jerónimos Monastery is a shining example of Manueline architecture, a Portuguese style that combines architectural elements from the Gothic and Renaissance periods, with distinctive maritime motifs. This is evident in the monastery's ornate façade, which features carved images of twisted ropes, sea monsters, and corals.

One of the most striking features of the monastery is the Church of Santa Maria, its grand interior characterized by a forest of delicately twisted columns, each one carved from a single block of stone. The church also houses the tombs of prominent Portuguese figures, including explorer Vasco da Gama and poet Luís de Camões.

The monastery's two-story cloister, adorned with intricate sculptures depicting biblical scenes, is another highlight. Its design showcases the artistic mastery of the era, with each column uniquely carved with coils of rope, sea creatures, and plants. Lastly, the Refectory, with its beautiful azulejos (traditional ceramic tiles), echoes the monastery's maritime theme, making Jerónimos Monastery a truly unique testimony to Portugal's Age of Discovery.

Discover Jerónimos Monastery, a prime feature of Lisbon, in the vibrant Belém. Jerónimos Monastery is situated at Praça do Império 1400-206 Lisboa, 1400-206 Lisboa, Portugal, just a short distance from Museum of Contemporary Art – MAC/CCB and Padrão dos Descobrimentos, making it a perfect addition to your itinerary.

In the vicinity of Jerónimos Monastery, various dining and shopping options await, alongside a lively atmosphere that captures the essence of local life. This location serves as a perfect starting point or a key highlight during your exploration of Lisbon, a city in Portugal rich with cultural and adventurous activities.

When planning your trip, timing is key. Discover the best time to visit Lisbon to fully enjoy the seasonal charm of Jerónimos Monastery. Explore travel trips and ideas on this city from the comprehensive Lisbon travel guide for an unforgettable adventure.

Jerónimos Monastery is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Lisbon, Portugal. If you're flying in, Lisbon Portela Airport is approximately 6.6 miles (10.6 km) away from the city center. From there, you can easily reach Jerónimos Monastery by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Lisbon, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Jerónimos Monastery, which is located 4.1 miles (6.6 km) from the city center. Its exact address is Praça do Império 1400-206 Lisboa, 1400-206 Lisboa, Portugal.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Jerónimos Monastery!

The best time to explore Jerónimos Monastery in Lisbon, Portugal, is during the spring and autumn months of April, May, September, and October. During these periods, the weather is pleasantly warm and tourist crowds are relatively thinner. These seasons offer an excellent opportunity to appreciate the architectural splendor of the Monastery without enduring the summer heat or winter chills. Notably, the Monastery hosts various special events, including concerts and exhibitions, which are often scheduled during these months, enhancing the overall experience. Additionally, visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon can help avoid peak tourist hours, providing more leisurely exploration. For those looking to witness the Monastery bask in the ethereal glow of the setting sun, an evening visit is highly recommended. However, keep in mind that the Monastery closes at 6 pm, so plan your visit accordingly. In conclusion, timing your visit to coincide with favorable weather, lower crowd levels and special events is key to a memorable experience at Jerónimos Monastery.

With everything seamlessly arranged for your trip to Lisbon, you can simply pack your bags and look forward to exploring Jerónimos Monastery.

Keep reading to discover the best options for experiencing this iconic monastery in Portugal.

Upon arriving at Lisbon Portela Airport, you’ll find 3 reputable rental car companies conveniently situated near the city of Lisbon.

Click 'See More' to unlock other affordable car rental options in Lisbon.

Choosing the right accommodation near Jerónimos Monastery from the widest selection of hotels and places to stay in Lisbon can truly make all the difference in your trip. Not only will you be within a comfortable distance from Jerónimos Monastery, but you’ll also enjoy the best rates available, backed by 24/7 customer service and glowing reviews.

To help you make the most of your visit, we’ve curated a handpicked list of top-rated hotels nearby.

Beyond Jerónimos Monastery, Lisbon boasts plenty more landmarks that make every trip unforgettable. From establishment to museum, the top attractions in Lisbon offer experiences you won’t want to miss.

One of the most notable attractions to visit while in Lisbon is Praça do Comércio, located at 1100-148 Lisbon, Portugal. This well-known establishment enhances your time in the city.

Whether you plan a short visit or take time to explore fully, Belém Tower is worth seeing when you're in Lisbon. It's a popular establishment that’s perfect for rounding out your itinerary. You’ll find it at Av. Brasília, 1400-038 Lisboa, Portugal.

This museum draws visitors with its unique appeal, making it an essential stop on your journey. Located at R. De Santa Cruz do Castelo, 1100-129 Lisboa, Portugal, its surroundings offer plenty of reasons to linger a little longer.

The city's top sights offer a wide variety of experiences to make your trip truly memorable. Check out the full list of top attractions in Lisbon below to discover even more incredible places to explore.