Jerónimos Monastery in Belém

The Jerónimos Monastery in Lisbon is one of Lisbon's most renowned monuments. It is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site (along with 18 other Portuguese monuments), making it also considered one of the most important in Portugal.

Jerónimos Monastery in Portuguese History

According to Wikipedia, construction of the monument we see today began on January 6, 1501, and took 100 years to complete.

But before it became the grand building we can see today, it was a small church where Portuguese navigators held vigils the night before setting out on their great expeditions.

When the church gave way to a magnificent monastery, it was chosen to be inhabited by the monks of the Order of Saint Jerome (hence its name). The idea was to have a place of tranquility where the monks' prayers would guide the explorers on their voyages, as well as the kings in their governance.

What to See at Jerónimos Monastery in Lisbon

The architecture of the site features, like most other important places to visit in Lisbon, sculptures and motifs related to the demanding world of navigation and the sea in all its expressions.

It is said to be the most "Manueline" monument in the city — architecturally speaking. This style means it features maritime motifs, as mentioned above.  

Visitors can explore the monastery's various rooms that witnessed key moments in Portuguese history, such as the monks' dining hall and the sun-drenched inner courtyard.

At the end of the visit, which can last approximately three hours, you can head over to other nearby landmarks such as the Belém Tower and the Monument to the Discoveries, both just a few minutes' walk away.

Church and National Pantheon of Jerónimos Monastery

Since 2016, Jerónimos Monastery in Lisbon has also held the status of National Pantheon, distinct from the National Pantheon in Alfama.

Attached to the monastery is a magnificent church where the remains of various Portuguese figures rest, including explorer and navigator Vasco da Gama and Luís de Camões, a celebrated Portuguese writer known for Os Lusíadas, an epic poem honoring the achievements of Vasco da Gama, his companions, and their maritime adventures.

Other notable figures who rest here include the famous poet Fernando Pessoa, the King Manuel and King Sebastião. 

Some of these tombs are merely symbolic, as the remains of certain navigators were never recovered.

Visiting Jerónimos Monastery and the surrounding area

We recommend exploring every corner we've mentioned — it's a truly special place for Portugal and the world.

In addition, recitals are sometimes held inside the monastery. If you ever have the chance to attend a concert here, don't miss it — it's a wonderful way to round off your visit.

Don't waste your trip out here without trying the delicious Pastéis de Belém, Portugal's most famous pastry, born at the hands of the monks of Jerónimos Monastery.

If you still have energy, you can also visit nearby museums such as the Berardo Collection, the Belém Cultural Centre and the Maritime Museum, all located in the area surrounding the Monastery.

This attraction is free with the Lisbon Card

Monastery admission prices:

• Standard admission is €10
• 50% discount for visitors over 65
• Free for children under 12
• Free on Sundays and public holidays for residents of Portugal.

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Monastery address:

Praça do Imperio, Belém

To reach Jerónimos Monastery, you can take Tram 15 from Praça do Comércio or take the train to Belém from Cais do Sodré station. Another option is to take buses 28, 714, 727, or 751.

Opening hours

• October to April: open 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
• May to September: open 10:00 am – 6:30 pm
• Closed on Mondays, January 1, Easter Sunday, May 1, June 13, and December 25.