Images of Portugal: Jeronimos Monastery - Lisbon
Jeronimos Monastery in the Belem district of Lisbon in Portugal is a UNESCO World Heritage listed site very close to the Belem Tower. Both structures are masterpieces of Manueline architecture.
Commissioned by King Manuel I in 1501, the monastery was designed to commemorate Vasco da Gama's successful voyage to India and to serve as a final resting place for the royal family. Its construction, which spanned nearly a century, reflects the wealth and global influence Portugal accrued during this period. The intricate ornamentation of the monastery, featuring maritime motifs and symbols of Portugal's discoveries, underscores its historical and cultural significance. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1983, Jeronimos Monastery not only embodies a pinnacle of architectural achievement but also serves as a symbol of Portugal's expansive maritime history and its pivotal role in global exploration.
