Portugal - Belem, Mosteiro dos Jerónimos

The Mosteiro dos Jerónimos (Jeronimos Monastery) is the most impressive symbol of Portugal's power and wealth during the Age of Discovery. Portugal’s King Manuel I gave orders for the construction of the monastery, which started in 1501. It was built on the site of a chapel where Vasco da Gama and his crew spent their last night in Portugal in prayer before leaving for India.

Funding of this project came also from a 5% tax on many colony imports, meaning a massive amount of money was raised. The original time planned to construct the monastery was only eight years, but as the ‘pepper tax’ brought in greater wealth the plans grew and grew. The construction was ended in 1601 and the monastery was finally inaugurated by Felipe II, the Spanish ruler of the Iberian Union, in 1604.

The architecture of the building was influenced by the Manueline style (named after the King Manuel I). Inspired by the sea voyages, the decorative style incorporated anchors, ropes, and other maritime symbols, in addition to religious symbols. Gothic and renaissance styles also influenced the building’s construction. The Church of Santa Maria is completely different from the rest. The temple has a single nave that is held up by six beautifully sculpted columns.

The monks selected by King Manuel I to live in the monastery belonged to the Order of Saint Jerome (Hieronymites), so it was also known as the Hieronymites Monastery.

The Jerónimos Monastery is the final resting place for King Manuel I and his family. Many famous Portuguese writers are also buried here, as well as world-renowned navigator Vasco da Gama.

Due to the clever engineering design of small columns that support the vast roof of the church, the building could withstand the devastating 1755 earthquake. The majority of Lisbon’s large buildings collapsed, while Mosteiro dos Jerónimos had only slight damage. The monastery decayed during the abolition of the religious orders brought about by the protracted invasion by Napoleon and the entire church complex almost collapsed. Restoration work began after 1860 and was ‘finished’ mid-20th century; renovation and conservation are still going on.

Due to its cultural and architectural significance, the Mosteiro dos Jerónimos was classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983. Nowadays the monastery is one of the most prominent and visited touristy sights of Lisbon.