Jerónimos Monastery: UNESCO World Heritage Object in Lisbon

Jerónimos Monastery, opened in 1495, is one of the most significant places in Lisbon, a sign of the era of prosperity of Portugal during the Age of Discovery, and a must-see place in the Lisbon city walking tour. The facade of the monastery, made of soft beige sandstone, looks luxurious against the backdrop of spacious green gardens. In the west wing of the monastery is the Maritime Museum with Vasco da Gama Resting Place and the National Archaeological Museum of Portugal, making it a great choice for a full-day excursion. 

The first floor of the monastery is impressive with its luxurious, well-kept interiors. The specific feature on the second floor is a unique carving, elegant and sophisticated. Today the monastery is a big museum, but also it's used for the state purposes of the country and the world. The famous Treaty of Lisbon was signed here. 

All the parts of the monastery are unique, some of the columns show sea knots, sea monsters, corals, and many other marine motifs. That's why this attraction is always in the top places to visit for day trips from Lisbon. The greatest masters of stone carving expressed their art, creating one of Lisbon's architectural wonders, capturing scenes from the life of St. Jerome and the coat of arms of the king.

A sculpture of Henry the Navigator, holding a sword in his hands, is located near the middle column, and stone lions are fighting at his feet. Archangel Gabriel, who is the guardian of Portugal, crowns the top of the portal. Today, the monastery is one of the major attractions of Portugal.

The Church of Santa Maria, located here, is an architectural masterpiece and a must-see place in the list of Belem district attractions. The church, with its genuine architectural style, can be called the heart of the Jeronimos Monastery. It amazes with its rich decor, soft light emanating from narrow lancet stained-glass windows, twisted columns reminiscent of scaffolding, a mesh vault, an abundance of bas-reliefs, and statues of saints and apostles in niches.

A visit to the Maritime Museum as a part of Lisbon tours will give both adult and young visitors an unforgettable experience as every exhibit seems to be imbued with the sea breeze and adventure. At the National Archaeological Museum, visitors will see the remains of the great events. The abundance of decorative elements in every corner of the monastery complex is impressive.