Why it deserves a visit
Commissioned by Manuel I in the early sixteenth century, the monastery is a defining work of Manueline architecture and has shared UNESCO World Heritage status with Belém Tower since 1983.
What to look for
On the south portal, look at the sculptural programme arranged around Our Lady of Belém; inside, notice the slender columns and ribbed vaulting of the hall church. Successive building campaigns in the cloister reveal both Manueline design and João de Castilho’s later work.
Plan your visit
The church and cloister may use different queues and entry arrangements. Allow time for both, and relate the monastery to Manuel I’s patronage, the Order of Saint Jerome and Belém’s former harbour.
The church and cloister may follow different queues and access conditions. Read the complex in relation to Belém, the Hieronymite order and royal patronage, and reserve enough time rather than treating it as a façade stop.
Construction began under Manuel I in the early sixteenth century and continued through several architects and campaigns.
