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Carmo Convent
Located in the heart of Lisbon, the Carmo Convent stands as a poignant reminder of the city's rich history and architectural heritage. Originally built in the 14th century, this iconic monument bears witness to the devastating earthquake of 1755, which left its roofless nave exposed to the elements. Despite its ruinous state, the Carmo Convent exudes an air of mystique and intrigue, drawing visitors from around the world to explore its hauntingly beautiful remnants.
Today, the convent serves as a captivating archaeological museum, housing a diverse collection of artefacts spanning centuries of Portuguese history. From intricate sculptures to ancient tombs, each exhibit offers a glimpse into the cultural tapestry of Lisbon's past. Whether you're a history enthusiast or simply seeking a glimpse into the city's chequered past, a visit to the Carmo Convent promises an unforgettable journey through time.
History
The outer walls of the Convento do Carmo
Founded on the historic grounds of Lisbon following the Christian reconquest, the Carmo Convent has roots dating back to the late 14th century. Initially established amidst a cluster of other convents including St. Francis, Espírito Santo da Pedreira, and Trindade, the Carmo Convent thrived, boasting a religious community of 70 monks by 1551 and a renowned library housing 5000 volumes.
However, its fate took a tragic turn on the morning of the 1st of November 1755, when a devastating earthquake, followed by tsunamis and fires, ravaged Lisbon, claiming thousands of lives and leaving destruction in its wake. While the city embarked on a journey of reconstruction, the Carmo Convent stood as a poignant symbol of resilience, deliberately left roofless and in ruins as a somber memorial to the catastrophe and its victims. Today, it serves as a powerful testament to Lisbon's enduring spirit and the importance of remembering the past.
However, its fate took a tragic turn on the morning of the 1st of November 1755, when a devastating earthquake, followed by tsunamis and fires, ravaged Lisbon, claiming thousands of lives and leaving destruction in its wake. While the city embarked on a journey of reconstruction, the Carmo Convent stood as a poignant symbol of resilience, deliberately left roofless and in ruins as a somber memorial to the catastrophe and its victims. Today, it serves as a powerful testament to Lisbon's enduring spirit and the importance of remembering the past.
Carmo Archaeological Museum (Museu Arqueológico do Carmo)
The former main altar of the Carmo Convent now houses an enthralling archaeological museum, boasting a diverse array of artefacts that offers a fascinating glimpse into history. Among its treasures are the towering two-metre stone sepulchre of King Ferdinand I and the tomb of Gonçalo de Sousa, chancellor to Henry the Navigator. Visitors can also marvel at a 15th-century alabaster relief from Nottingham, intricate 16th-century Arabesque azulejos, and a captivating collection of Visigothic artefacts and ancient coins.
For those intrigued by the convent's pre-earthquake appearance, a model provides insight into its former grandeur. Delve further into the past with remnants from Visigothic pillars and a Roman tomb adorned with mesmerizing reliefs depicting the Muses.
Beyond these historical gems, the museum offers macabre curiosities, including shrunken heads, pre-Columbian South American mummies, and an Egyptian sarcophagus dating back to 793–619 BC. As you enter, don't miss the stone engraved with Gothic lettering, bearing an indulgence granted by Pope Clement VII to any faithful Christian who visits this sacred site.
High Season: Monday – Saturday: 10h00 – 19h00, Low Season: Monday – Saturday: 10h00 – 18h00. Sunday: CLOSED
Adult: €5.00, Consessionary: €4.00, Child Under 14: €4.00, Lisbon Card: - 20%
For those intrigued by the convent's pre-earthquake appearance, a model provides insight into its former grandeur. Delve further into the past with remnants from Visigothic pillars and a Roman tomb adorned with mesmerizing reliefs depicting the Muses.
Beyond these historical gems, the museum offers macabre curiosities, including shrunken heads, pre-Columbian South American mummies, and an Egyptian sarcophagus dating back to 793–619 BC. As you enter, don't miss the stone engraved with Gothic lettering, bearing an indulgence granted by Pope Clement VII to any faithful Christian who visits this sacred site.
High Season: Monday – Saturday: 10h00 – 19h00, Low Season: Monday – Saturday: 10h00 – 18h00. Sunday: CLOSED
Adult: €5.00, Consessionary: €4.00, Child Under 14: €4.00,
Lisbon Card: - 20%
Getting to the Convento do Carmo
| 758 | |
| 15 & 25 | |
| Baixa-Chiado station on the Blue & Green Lines |
1 Largo do Carmo, 1200-092 Lisboa, Portugal.
38° 42' 43.2"N | 09° 08' 26.0"W | +351 213 460 473 / 478 629
secretaria@arqueologos.pt | Website
