The history of Portugal has left behind many constructions and works that today delight those who visit this paradise by the sea and who are not only looking for sun and sea, but also rich culture and sights to be discovered. And it is, above all, in Greater Lisbon and in the Central region of Portugal where you can find the monuments that most attracted the interest of tourists, both foreign and Portuguese, during the last year. So, what is the most visited monument in Portugal? Plan your next trip with our guide.
2022, the year of the "renaissance" of culture
After recent years affected by the pandemic, tourism and culture in Portugal finally got back on its feet last year and, consequently, the number of visits to monuments in the country almost tripled. According to the DGPC (General Directorate of Cultural Heritage), the year 2022 was quite positive, but still far from the excellent figures achieved between 2017 and 2020.
In a 2023 already far away from masks, alcohol gel and, above all, lockdowns, experts believe that this will be a year in which visits to Portuguese heritage return to pre-pandemic numbers. And to make sure you see the finest monuments that Portugal has to offer, we're here to help you plan your trip with the ranking of the top 7 most visited monuments in Portugal. From Lisbon statues and monuments, to famous sanctuaries, monasteries and much more, it's time to explore.
Mosteiro dos Jerónimos
According to the Direção-Geral do Património Cultural, the Jerónimos Monastery was the most visited monument in Portugal in 2022, reaching 870,321 entries. The Jerónimos Monastery is a magnificent architectural complex located in the Belem district of Lisbon, Portugal. The monastery was built in the 16th century and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its historical and cultural significance.
The Monastery is also a resting place for monarchic figures, as it is here that the tombs of King Manuel I and his family are found, as well as those of one of the best known Portuguese navigators, Vasco da Gama.
The monastery is considered a masterpiece of Portuguese late Gothic architecture, with intricate stonework and sculptural details that reflect the wealth and power of Portugal during the Age of Discovery. The main entrance to the monastery is through a grand archway that leads to a spacious courtyard. The ornate cloisters are one of the most impressive features of the monastery, with intricately carved columns, arches, and vaulted ceilings.
Many people also combine a trip to the monastery with some of Portugal's most famous sweet treat: pastéis de nata. The history these pastéis de nata (also known as pastéis de Belém) can be traced back to the Jerónimos Monastery. In the early 19th century, the monks who lived in the monastery began selling the tarts to earn some extra income. The recipe for the tarts was a closely guarded secret for many years, but eventually, it was sold to a sugar refinery in the 1830s. The refinery then opened a pastry shop called "Pastéis de Belém" near the monastery, which still operates today and attracts tourists in their thousands to try the famous pastéis de nata.
Torre de Belém
The silver medal goes to the beautiful Torre de Belém, also in Lisbon. Built in the 16th century, it was then quite different compared to today. At that time, the Tower was completely surrounded by water. However, as the years passed and due to the displacement of the river, it became connected to the coast and, currently, on days when the tide is low it is possible to walk to its base.
Something far more curious, and which goes unnoticed by even the most attentive, is the fact that there is an image of a rhinoceros carved on the outside. This was the first depiction of this animal found in Europe and was inspired by the rhinoceros that was given to King Manuel I by an Indian king.
Mosteiro da Batalha
The last spot on the podium is occupied by the Batalha Monastery, also known as the Monastery of Santa Maria da Vitória, a magnificent Gothic-style monastery located in the town of Batalha, Portugal. It was built in the 14th century to commemorate the victory of the Portuguese over the Castilians in the famous Battle of Aljubarrota, which took place in 1385.
The Batalha Monastery was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983, recognising its importance as one of the most significant examples of Gothic architecture in Portugal. It remains a popular tourist attraction today, attracting visitors from around the world who come to admire its impressive architecture and learn about its rich history.
Convento de Cristo
The Convento de Cristo, or the Convent of Christ, is a historical complex located in the city of Tomar, Portugal. It was originally a Templar stronghold in the 12th century and was later turned into a monastery by the Order of Christ in the 15th century. The complex is one of the most important examples of Portuguese Gothic architecture and was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1983.
The convent includes a number of notable buildings, including the Charola, a circular church with a Templar origin that is considered one of the most unique structures of its kind in the world. The church features Romanesque, Gothic and Manueline architectural elements. The convent also features a cloister, chapter house, dormitory, refectory, kitchen, and other important spaces.
Today, visitors can tour the Convent of Christ and admire its stunning architecture and rich history. The complex is located in the heart of Tomar and is a must-see for anyone interested in Portuguese history, culture, and architecture.
Museu Nacional do Azulejo
The first tourist attraction in Portugal to surpass the 200,000 entry mark in 2022 was the National Tile Museum, in Lisbon. And no wonder, as this is one of the most important national museums due to the distinct artistic expression of our culture. The museum is dedicated to the art and history of Portuguese tiles, known as azulejos. It is one of the most important cultural institutions in the country and a must-visit destination for those interested in the art of tile-making.
To visit it, all you have to do is walk to the former Convent of Madre de Deus, founded in 1509 by Queen D. Leonor. Among many other works, there you can find a tile panel that will show you Lisbon before the 1755 earthquake, where it is possible, without much effort, to identify the major changes caused by the disaster in the design of Portugal's capital.
Mosteiro de Alcobaça
The Mosteiro de Alcobaça, or the Alcobaça Monastery, is a medieval monastery located in the town of Alcobaça, Portugal. The monastery was founded in 1153 by the first King of Portugal, Afonso Henriques, as a symbol of the new kingdom's power and wealth. It is one of the most important examples of Gothic architecture in Portugal and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1989. Its church, the first and largest of the Early Gothic style built in the Middle Ages, received almost 200,000 visitors last year.
One of the most notable features of the Alcobaça Monastery is the tomb of Pedro and Inês de Castro, which is located in the Royal Pantheon. Pedro was the son of King Afonso IV and Inês was his lover. Their tragic love story has become part of Portuguese folklore and has inspired many works of literature, music, and art. The tomb is considered one of the most beautiful examples of Gothic sculpture in Portugal and features intricate carvings and detailed ornamentation.
Palácio Nacional de Mafra
According to data from the Directorate General of Cultural Heritage (DGPC), the final place in the ranking of the top 7 most visited monuments in Portugal is occupied by the beautiful National Palace of Mafra. If you haven't yet visited, it's time to get to know this incredible Portuguese palace, known for its impressive size and stunning architecture.
The palace was built in the 18th century by King João V and includes a church, a convent, and a royal palace, all connected by a massive, symmetrical façade that stretches over 200 meters. The palace features ornate sculptures, grand staircases, intricate tile work, and beautiful frescoes, all of which are examples of the high Baroque style that was popular in Portugal during the 18th century.
Surprisingly, when King João V ordered it to be built, his initial idea was that it should only be a modest convent to house thirteen friars. However, with the arrival of gold from Brazil, the building took on astronomical proportions and today it covers an area of 4 hectares.
One of the most impressive features of the Mafra National Palace is its library, which is considered one of the most beautiful and important libraries in Europe. The library houses over 36,000 volumes, including rare books and manuscripts, and features stunning Baroque architecture and decoration.
Monasteries, Palaces and Museums for all tastes
From Gothic to Manueline architecture, including Romanesque and Baroque, there are various styles of imposing buildings that make up the list of the 7 most visited monuments in Portugal and which are appreciated by all generations.
Take advantage of this ranking of the 7 historical buildings in Portugal that received the most visitors in 2022 and enjoy a trip to Portugal to discover the best of what the country has to offer, beyond the beach. And if you need somewhere to stay, make sure to check out the wide range of holiday rentals in Portugal available on Rentalia.