The Hieronymite Monastery - Mostiero do Jeronimos de Belem is on the north side of the Praca do Imperio. It is a huge complex, surrounded by illuminated fountains and formal gardens. It is a most impressive symbol of Lisbon's power and wealth and encompases a number of fine old buildings and museums. Because we had only a few hours to spend here, we chose to walk around the gardens and were only able to visit one other site. Therefore, we chose to visit the Church of Santa Maria, what we felt to be the most significant building.
The church is located at the south-east corner of the complex. A magnificant south doorway leads into the three-aisled church. The church was built in 1517 and the Chior area, built in High Renaissance style was added in 1571.
The church houses numerous art treasures: huge octagonal piers, decorated reliefs, massive stained glass windows, richly carved alters and stairways, and an etched and gilded organ loft. It is said that a total of 5 kings, 7 queens and 19 prince and princesses are entombed within the church. Under the organ-loft are the sarcophaguses of Vasco da Gama and Luis de Camoes.
Once again, here in the church, we noticed the tiny intricately laid patterns of tiles under our feet serving as grave stones for of those entombed below.
Other buildings within the Monastery complex include a Naval Museum, Planetarium, Archaeological Museum, Museum of Coaches, and of course the Monastery.
Buildings are opened from 10am - 5pm (6pm in Summer)and are closed on Monday.