The Jeronimos Monastery has been declared a World Heritage monument in 1983 by UNESCO as it reflects some of the finest Portuguese art. The Monastery is a true symbol of power and wealth of Portugal during the Age of Discovery.
History of Jeronimos Monastery
The Jeronimos Monastery was built by King Manuel I in 1502. The site of the monastery is significant as it is a hermitage established by Prince Henry the Navigator. At this place Vasco da Gama and his crew members spent their last night in Portugal and offered prayers before they sailed for India.
The monastery has thus been constructed to commemorate Vasco Da Gama's voyage and thank Mother Mary for the success of the trip. The book exalts the achievements of Da Gama and his companions. The tombs of some great people of Portuguese history like King Manuel, Fernando Pessoa, King Sebastião, and Alexandre Herculano are also entombed here.
Architecture of Jeronimos Monastery
The building of Jeronimos Monastery is one of the greatest examples of European Gothic architecture. Different kinds of maritime motifs characterize the
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design of the monastery. This style of architecture was popular by the name of Manueline, a style of art that exalts the eminent discoveries of the age.
The interior of the Jeronimos Monastery are spacious with numerous octagonal piers. These piers are intricately decorated with relief that add to the grandeur of the monastery. It is located within a garden that was laid in 1940 comprising of hedges that have been cut in the shape of different coats of arms of Portugal municipal. A large fountain adorned with coats of arms lies at the center of the garden. The garden and the fountain are lighted on special occasions.
The cloisters of Jeronimos Monastery are splendid and each column has been distinctly engraved with coral, coils of rope, sea monsters, and other sea motifs. The motifs that are carved on the columns symbolizes the time during which exploration at sea was very popular. The entranceway to the former refectory has attractive network of arches and vaulting. Various Biblical story of Joseph are also depicted on the walls.
Tourists can visit the Jeronimos Monastery from 10.00 AM to 5PM in the months of October to April and from 10.00 AM to 6.00 PM from May to September. The monastery is closed on Mondays. Jeronimos Monastery in Lisbon is one of the most distinguishing Manueline churches of the world. This richly decorated monastery reflects the glorious past of the country.
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