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.

Located in the dynamic Belém, the popular Jerónimos Monastery is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful city of Lisbon or as a stop on your countrywide road trip through Portugal.

Lisbon is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Lisbon offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit this popular landmark in Lisbon and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Praça do Comércio, Belém Tower, Castelo de S. Jorge, Oceanário de Lisboa, and Time Out Market Lisboa.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Lisbon has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Lisbon, a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in Portugal!

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 Lisbon. 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. You can also rent a car and drive to Jerónimos Monastery, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. 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.

There's no better way to discover the wonders of Jerónimos Monastery and other top attractions in Lisbon than with a perfectly planned holiday package! Travel packages to Lisbon include everything you need to fully immerse yourself in Jerónimos Monastery's wonders and in the beauty and history of the region. These packages offer the perfect opportunity to delve into Jerónimos Monastery and experience a variety of activities and destinations tailored to suit all types of travelers.

Keep reading to discover the best travel plans and insider tips for uncovering the charm of this one-of-a-kind monastery in Portugal.

With a rental car, discovering the popular Jerónimos Monastery and Portugal's captivating landscapes becomes a breeze, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Upon arrival, international travelers can choose from 3 reputable rental car companies near Lisbon Portela Airport and the city of Lisbon, making transportation seamless and efficient.

Rental car companies in Portugal cater to a variety of preferences, offering vehicles ranging from compact and midsize to premium, estate, and even camper vans or convertibles. To select the perfect ride, consider your itinerary and specific travel plans in Lisbon and beyond.

Conveniently explore Jerónimos Monastery and plenty more captivating attractions in Lisbon by staying at a top-rated hotel in the center of the city. With comfortable accommodations and easy access to Jerónimos Monastery and other notable landmarks, wake up well-rested every day, ready to explore all that Lisbon has to offer.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Jerónimos Monastery below.

Aside from Jerónimos Monastery, Lisbon is home to numerous other top attractions waiting to be explored. From museums and architectural masterpieces to sculptures and natural wonders, the city offers a diverse range of sights to behold. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Lisbon, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely Praça do Comércio, Belém Tower, and Castelo de S. Jorge.

Praça do Comércio is a bucket-list establishment and top attraction in Lisbon, drawing numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 100,000 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the city. The exact address of Praça do Comércio is 1100-148 Lisbon, Portugal.

Another appreciated attraction in Lisbon is Belém Tower. Like Praça do Comércio, this is one of the most popular sites to visit in the city. With an impressive average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars among 91,000 visitors, it’s also one of the highest-rated. The exact address of this establishment is Av. Brasília, 1400-038 Lisboa, Portugal.

Castelo de S. Jorge is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Lisbon. This museum and top attraction in Lisbon has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 86,000 visitors. This attraction is located at the address of R. De Santa Cruz do Castelo, 1100-129 Lisboa, Portugal.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the city of Lisbon below.