Jeronimos Monastery Inside

The Church of Santa Maria has a breathtaking exterior crafted in Manueline-style architecture. The High Altar of the Church is designed in Mannerist-style architecture, a mix of sophisticated and complex styles. Its high-arched ceiling features delicate designs, supported by six pillars and separated into three parallel naves.

The rib vaults, pretty stained-glass windows and intricate stone carvings provide a magnificent view of the church. You can witness the royal tombs of King Manuel I and Queen Maria at the centre of the church. Other main highlights of the Church are grand arches and soaring ceilings.

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The cloisters in Jeronimos Monastery are one of Lisbon’s stunning sightseeing places. The marvellous stonework in the four-level cloisters is astonishing. It has two levels: the upper one is constructed in the Renaissance style, whereas the lower one is built in the Manueline style. The tomb of the famous poet Fernando Pessoa is also here. 

In the early 16th century, the architect Diogo de Boitaca started the construction of the cloisters, and João de Castilho completed it. It is encircled by elegant arches and columns made of white marble, which provide a relaxing atmosphere. 

Do Checkout: Facts About Jeronimos Monastery

The Monument of the Discoveries comprises statues and represents a small sailing ship built by the Portuguese to explore the Atlantic Ocean. The sculptures are of Prince Henry, the navigator leading the ship and the great Portuguese explorers behind him. The place was constructed in the 20th century to honour Portugal's renowned explorers and their contribution to the nation's rise to power. 

The monuments of the Discoveries hold the rich history of extraordinary explorers from Pedro Álvares Cabral to Ferdinand Magellan. Additionally, you can also learn about one of the great explorers Vasco da Gama, who established new routes for both the nation and the rest of the globe. 

Do Read: Jeronimos Monastery Burials

Vasco Da Gama (1468 - 1524), a great Portuguese explorer, was the first European to reach India through waterways. He was the one who connected Europe and Asia by an ocean route. One of the main reasons for building the monastery was his successful discovery of the ocean route to India in 1498. 

Earlier, his body was buried in St. Francis Church at Fort Kochi in Kerela, India. Later, after 400 years, his remains were returned to Portugal in 1539. You can pay tribute to Vasco Da Gama’s tomb in the Church’s lower choir and learn about his life by visiting Jeronimos Monastery inside.

Must Read: How to Reach Jeronimos Monastery

The Refectory’s construction was completed in the early 16th century during the rule of King Manuel I. The architect Leonardo Vaz created it in the main style of the Manueline, which has a low vaulted ceiling with multiple ribs.

The room’s interior looks royal and grandeur with the carved wooden ceilings, azulejo (tiles) panels and beautiful stone arches. These walls portray the stories from the Bible, like the bread and fish miracles and Joseph's life. It was a historic dining area used by the monks.  

Must Read: Jeronimos Monastery Dress Code

The Chapter House of the Jeronimos Monastery is an astounding place, which used to be a meeting place. In the 15th century, the construction of the place was started, yet it was entirely completed in the 19th century. The room’s interior provides one of the finest representations of the late Gothic style, which looks magnificent. You can pay tribute to Alexandre Herculano’s tomb, which is positioned right in the centre of the room. 

The highlights are the vaulted ceilings, interior decorations, and the statues of St. Jerome and Archangel Michae. Additionally, it also has two huge windows with intricate carvings.

Jeronimos Monastery is a treasure trove of ancient wisdom. The Library within is an ideal spot to explore the philosophies and teachings of monks from around the globe. Visitors can discover centuries-old books and manuscripts, including a rare edition of works by Camões, one of Portugal's greatest poets. The permanent exhibition "A Place in Time" in the Library highlights the monastery's historic significance to Portugal and the world over the centuries.

Jeronimos Monastery’s South Portal exemplifies Manueline architecture. This stunning entrance features a 32-meter door designed by João de Castilho. It's a visual feast: elaborate stone carvings, nearly 40 statues, and figurines adorn the pillars flanking the door. Notable figures include Henry the Navigator, St. Jerome, Our Lady of The Three Kings, the twelve apostles, and the Archangel Michael.