Everything you need to know about the Monastery of Jerónimos

History of Belem Monastery in a Nutshell

Construction begins (1501):

• King Manuel I orders the construction of the Jerónimos Monastery in Lisbon, Portugal.
  
• The monastery is built in the Gothic style with Manueline elements.

Completion of the church (1541):

• The construction of the church, the most significant part of the monastery, is completed after 40 years of work.
  
• The church is dedicated to St. Mary of Belém.

Famous burials:

• Many notable figures of Portuguese history are buried in the church, including Vasco da Gama and poet Luís de Camões.

Earthquake damage (1755):

• The Great Lisbon earthquake of 1755 causes significant damage to the monastery and the church.
  
• The monastery is used as a barracks for French troops during the Napoleonic Wars.

Restoration and UNESCO designation (1833-1983):

• The Portuguese government begins restoration work on the monastery in 1833.
  
• In 1983, the Jerónimos Monastery is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Papal visit (1967):

• Pope Paul VI visits the Jerónimos Monastery during his trip to Portugal.
  
• He celebrates Mass in the church and visits the tomb of Vasco da Gama.

500th anniversary (2001):

• The monastery celebrates its 500th anniversary with a series of events and exhibitions.
  
• The celebrations include the unveiling of a new statue of King Manuel I.

Recent restoration (2010-2011):

• A major restoration project takes place from 2010 to 2011, funded by the Portuguese government and private donors.
  
• The restoration focuses on the church and cloisters and includes cleaning, repair, and conservation work.

​Details of Jerónimos Monastery history