The Majestic Church of St. María of Belém: A Treasure of Lisbon
Explore the Church of St. María of Belém, an architectural marvel in Lisbon, rich in history and artistic splendor, perfect for cultural enthusiasts.
A brief summary to Church of St. María of Belém
- Praça do Império, Lisbon, PT
- +351213620004
- Tuesday 10:30 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10:30 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10:30 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10:30 am-5 pm
- Sunday 8 am-5 pm
The Church of St. María of Belém, also known as the Jerónimos Monastery, is an iconic landmark that encapsulates the rich heritage of Lisbon. This stunning example of Manueline architecture is not only a functioning Catholic church but also serves as a prominent tourist attraction, drawing visitors from all over the globe. The intricate stonework, adorned with maritime motifs, reflects Portugal's Age of Discovery and its deep-rooted connections to the sea. As you step inside, the awe-inspiring interior, featuring soaring vaulted ceilings and beautifully detailed chapels, invites you to pause and reflect in its tranquil atmosphere. Situated in the picturesque Praça do Império, the church is surrounded by lush gardens and historical monuments, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll. Many tourists choose to combine their visit with a stop at the nearby Maritime Museum or the iconic Belém Tower, enhancing their exploration of this culturally rich area. The church is open to visitors on Sundays from 8 AM to 5 PM, with limited hours during the week, so planning your visit accordingly is essential. Don't miss the opportunity to witness the stunning altar and the tomb of Vasco da Gama, which are essential highlights of your visit. The Church of St. María of Belém stands as a testament to Portugal's artistic prowess and offers a glimpse into the nation's storied past, making it a must-see destination for anyone traveling to Lisbon.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful experience.
- Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Belém Tower for a full day of exploration.
- Be sure to dress modestly as it is a place of worship.
- Check for any special events or services happening during your visit for a unique experience.
Getting There
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Tram
Take Tram 15E from Praça da Figueira or Cais do Sodré. Ensure you validate your ticket before boarding. Stay on the tram for about 20 minutes, enjoying the scenic views along the way. Disembark at the 'Belém' stop. From there, walk straight along Av. Brasília for about 10 minutes until you reach Praça do Império, where the Church of St. María of Belém is located.
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Bus
Catch Bus 728 from Cais do Sodré station. The bus ride will take approximately 25 minutes. Get off at the 'Mosteiro dos Jerónimos' stop. From there, you can walk to the Church of St. María of Belém by heading towards the large square (Praça do Império) in front of the Jerónimos Monastery. The church is located adjacent to the monastery.
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Train
If you're near the city center, head to the Cais do Sodré train station and take the suburban train to Belém (this is part of the Cascais line). The train ride lasts around 7 minutes. Once you arrive at Belém station, exit and walk straight towards the river. Follow the riverside path (Cais de Belém) for about 15 minutes until you reach Praça do Império, where the Church of St. María of Belém is situated.
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Walking
If you are staying in the Belém area, you can easily walk to the Church of St. María of Belém. Head towards Praça do Império, which is a prominent square in the area. The church is located right on the square, making it a central point of interest. Enjoy the beautiful gardens and views of the river along the way.
Attractions Nearby to Church of St. María of Belém
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Jerónimos Monastery
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Empire Square Garden
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Naval Museum of Jerónimos
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Pastéis de Belém
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Museu Nacional de Arqueologia
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Garden Vasco da Gama
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Pavilhão Sala Thai
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Tropical Botanical Garden
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Navy Planetarium
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Museu de Marinha
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Centro Cultural de Belém
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Museu da Presidência da República
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Museum of Contemporary Art – MAC/CCB
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Lisbon by Boat
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Doca de Belém
Landmarks nearby to Church of St. María of Belém
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Real Mosteiro de Santa Maria de Belém
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Távoras Pelourinho
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Chafariz do Palácio de Belém
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Belem Lighthouse
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Primeira Pedra
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Jardim da Torre de Belém
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Belém Tower
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Monument to the Overseas Combatants
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Palácio Nacional da Ajuda
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Chafariz da Junqueira
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25 April Bridge
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Túmulo Pedro de Sousa Holstein
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Chafariz da Fonte Santa
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Rocha Conde de Óbidos Viewpoint
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Mural for Pessoa and Saramago