Belém is one of the oldest districts in Lisbon. By visiting Lisbon, you can discover a port that has played an important role in the history of Portuguese shipping.

At the beginning of the 16th century under Manuel I, the first stone of the monastery was laid and construction work began in 1517. The Jerónimos Monastery is one of the most remarkable Manueline style buildings in the world.

The most remarkable part is the south portal with sculpted ornaments. It was created by Boitac and Juan di Castillo. Near the central pillar is a magnificent statue, the sculptures of the western portal, created by Nicola Chantherin, represent Mary of Castile (Manuel I’s second wife) and John the Baptist.

On the left side, the monarch himself and Saint Jerome are immortalized. Designed by João di Castilla, the lattice vault withstood the 1755 earthquake, but the tent of the monastery church collapsed.

Inside the Jerónimos Monastery of Lisbon are the tombs of Vasco da Gama and the poet Camões, author of the famous poem of the Louisiada.

The covered gallery of the monastery’s courtyard was designed by João di Castilla and certified in 1544. Its Manueline arches and balustrade are decorated with subtle drawings and lush sculptures.

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