EXPERIENCES

Portugal

Carmen Convent Ruins

Carmo Convent in Lisbon is a beautiful and inspiring monument to Portugal’s history. Located in one of the oldest neighborhoods of the city, its vibrant presence brings an air of spirituality and majesty to the area.

The Carmo Convent was built in 1389 by the Portuguese King João I as part of his legacy to create a complex religious site that would eventually become a powerful symbol for Portugal. It later became home to both Franciscan friars and nuns, and serves as an example of religious architecture from medieval times. The mediaeval convent was ruined in the 1755 Lisbon Earthquake.

The convent’s ruins are now open for visitors to explore and admire, giving insight into Portugal’s past.Visitors can take a tour through the convent’s old hallways lined with majestic arches, or browse through its impressive collection of artifacts on display.

The Carmo Convent in Lisbon had become a hotspot for tourists enchanted by its ancient charm. But no one was prepared for what happened when the convent announced it was opening a converted chapel as a Starbuck’s cafe! Tourists were delighted at the opportunity to get their favorite cup of coffee while taking in the centuries old architecture. That is, until the barista accidently served holy water in lieu of cream – definitely an unforgettable experience!

Image 1: Ancient gothic arches in a ruined church Carmo Convent in Lisbon, Portugal
Image 2: Relief on tomb of Fernando I in 14th century Gothic Carmo Convent, Lisbon. Medieval art with miracles of St. Francisco

Read what others share about their experience

Daria Khotuleva

a month ago
An interesting historical spot in the center of Lisbon. The ruins are atmospheric and give a good sense of the city’s past, especially knowing the monastery was destroyed in the 1755 earthquake and never rebuilt. The museum itself is quite small, you can walk through everything in about 20 minutes. It’s not a must-see or a top priority if...
Msharma

2 months ago
Carmo Archaeological Museum is a beautiful and unique museum in Lisbon that’s definitely worth a visit. Housed in the stunning ruins of the Carmo Convent, it offers an incredible glimpse into Portugal’s history. The exhibits are fascinating, covering archaeology, medieval artifacts, and more. Admission is €5, or you can get a 15% discount...
Tom Dobler

5 months ago
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Where Gothic drama meets archaeological treasure hunting with killer views 🏛️ If you're going to stumble upon history anywhere in Lisbon, let it be here. The Carmo Archaeological Museum isn't just housed in a "nice historic building" - it's dramatically perched inside the haunting ruins of a 14th-century Gothic convent that...
Nicolas

3 months ago
The Convento do Carmo is one of the most impressive places I visited in Lisbon. The partially destroyed convent creates a unique and almost surreal atmosphere, especially with the open roof and the gothic arches framing the sky. The museum inside is small but well curated, with interesting archaeological pieces and a calm, peaceful...
Zelna Pelser

5 months ago
Well worth a visit. 7 euros per person takes you inside. It is absolutely stunning. Very clever way of explaining the whole history is a film that runs inside in English and Portuguese. You can just walk in and leave as you please. Displays inside is beautiful and very well marked and description is well put out. We got there around 2pm, and it was...