The Jerónimos Monastery (Lisbon, Portugal)

History

The Jerónimos Monastery, located in Lisbon, Portugal, has a rich history dating back to the 16th century. It was commissioned by King Manuel I to celebrate Vasco da Gama's successful voyage to India. The monastery was designed by architect Diogo de Boitaca and construction began in 1501. It took over 100 years to complete, with various architects contributing to its magnificent architecture. The monastery served as a place of worship and a burial site for Portuguese royalty. Today, it stands as a symbol of Portugal's Age of Discovery and is a popular tourist attraction.

Food

The Jerónimos Monastery is located in the Belém district of Lisbon, known for its delicious culinary offerings. Visitors can indulge in traditional Portuguese pastries, such as the famous Pastéis de Belém, which are sweet custard tarts dusted with cinnamon. These pastries are a must-try when visiting the monastery. The district also offers a variety of seafood dishes, including bacalhau (salted codfish) and grilled sardines. The local restaurants in Belém provide a perfect opportunity to savor authentic Portuguese cuisine.