Carmo Convent Lisbon 2024 Tourist Guide

When you stand in Rossio Square and look towards Castelo de Sao Jorge, a hauntingly beautiful sight greets you: Carmo Convent.

The medieval building is one of the most splendid Gothic buildings and still stands in Lisbon as a reminder of the catastrophic earthquake in 1755 that destroyed most parts of the city.

At the time, the roof collapsed on the congregation attending Mass on All Saints Day. The people never rebuilt it, but the Gothic arches remained standing.

But why visit the Carmo Convent in Lisbon, which is primarily ruins? Well, for one, you can learn fascinating history here and explore the place yourself to see the magnificence of this long-standing building.

How to Reach Carmo Convent

Visiting Convento do Carmo is a unique experience that makes you feel carried inside a storybook or a romantic poem. 

The entrance gate is close to the Elevador de Santa Justa in Chiado. Furthermore, it is a short walk from the Baixa-Chiado metro station. You need to exit to the Chiado side on the green or blue lines.

Alternatively, you can use public transport traveling by bus or tram using your Lisbon Card.

Hot Tip🔥: If you are heading here first, stop at Rossio Square, one of the most vibrant places in Lisbon.

Visiting Carmo Convent

You can visit the Carmo Convent ruins and the Carmo Convent Archeological Museum at the same time. 

Carmo Convent & Carmo Museum Lisbon Admission

You can buy a ticket at the entrance even if you do not have the Lisbon Card. The ticket price is €5 for adults, and children up to 14 years enter free. 

If you are a student or senior with a Lisbon Card, the price is €4.

Furthermore, it is one attraction included in your Lisbon Card 💳 providing unlimited public transport use and discounted admission to other attractions in Lisbon.

Timetable:

• Monday: 10:00 – 18:00
• Tuesday: 10:00 – 18:00
• Wednesday: 10:00 – 18:00
• Thursday: 10:00 – 18:00
• Friday: 10:00 – 18:00
• Saturday: 10:00 – 18:00
• Sunday: Closed

Carmo Convent

One thing is sure: the Gothic ruins are gorgeous after the devastating earthquake, so have your camera ready to capture photos from all angles.

Carmo Church was considered one of the most majestic Gothic churches in Lisbon.

While it is now mostly ruins, the imperfections make it a charming place to explore. Once you step into the church without a roof, it feels like it is holding the sky.

While Queen Mary l did reorder the church’s rebuilding, it was never completed, and until today, it remains a fascinating attraction.

Museu Arqueológico do Carmo (MAC)

At the Carmo Archaeological Museum, you will find the ruins of the Carmo Convent.

The Association of Portuguese Archaeologists founded the museum. It houses historical finds and eclectic collections that rewrote Lisbon’s history.

It is one of Lisbon’s main tourist attractions, and its history ranges from the Middle Ages.

You can view the panels of azulejos, Peruvian mummies, and other weird, interesting things.

Maria Anna Tomb 

Maria Anna of Austria, also known as Maria Anna of Spain, served as the queen consort of Portugal.

She was born to Philip IV of Spain and Elisabeth of France and was the sister of Charles II of Spain. In 1646, she married King John IV of Portugal and held the position of queen consort until he died in 1656.

Maria Anna significantly influenced Portugal’s political and cultural spheres during her term. She was a notable patron of the arts and sciences, founding the Royal Academy of Sciences in Lisbon.

Additionally, she championed women’s education, establishing the Convent of the Misericordia in Lisbon as a center for female learning.

After King John IV’s death, Maria Anna returned to Spain and spent her final years in a convent, where she died in 1679.

Although her time as queen consort was relatively short, her contributions left a lasting mark on Portuguese society. She is remembered for her dedication to the arts and education, with her final resting place at the Carmo Convent Museum.

Other Artifacts and Mummies at Carmo Convent Museum

Furthermore, you can explore a vast selection of mummies at the museum:

• American Mummies
• Egyptian Mummies
• A Baroque Tomb
• Gothic Tomb and so much more

Hot Tip🔥: To discover other interesting things you can do in Lisbon, check out these 40 things to explore.

Carmo Convent History

The Carmo Convent in Lisbon, officially known as the Convent of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, boasts a rich and storied history.

Founded in 1389 by Nuno Álvares Pereira, a notable Portuguese general and statesman who played a crucial role in securing Portugal’s independence during the 1383-1385 Crisis, the convent quickly became one of Lisbon’s most significant religious institutions.

Completed in 1423, its construction reflected the Gothic architectural style prevalent at the time, featuring pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and flying buttresses.

The convent complex included a large church, a cloister, a chapter house, and various monastic buildings, making it a key cultural and religious hub with an extensive library and a learning center.

On November 1, 1755, a devastating earthquake struck Lisbon, causing widespread destruction throughout the city. The Carmo Convent was not spared, with much of its roof collapsing and its structure left in ruins.

This earthquake marked a pivotal moment in Lisbon’s history, fundamentally altering its landscape.

Unlike many other buildings, the Carmo Convent was never fully rebuilt. Instead, its ruins were preserved, serving as a haunting yet beautiful reminder of the disaster.

Hot Tip🔥: To learn more about other attractions, read through these facts about Lisbon to make exploring them enjoyable.

Wrap-Up: Carmo Convent Lisbon

A visit to the Carmo Convent in Lisbon is a journey through history and beauty. Despite its ruinous state, the convent is a testament to the city’s resilience and a captivating glimpse into the past.

From the hauntingly beautiful Gothic architecture to the historical artifacts and mummies housed within the Carmo Convent Museum, this site provides a truly unique and enriching experience.

Exploring the Carmo Convent allows you to connect with Lisbon’s rich cultural and religious heritage while marveling at its magnificence.

Frequently Asked Questions