Category: Religious Architecture > Convent
District: Faro > Faro > Faro > Centro
The convent is located in Largo D. Afonso III, in the historic center of Faro, in the area known as Vila-Adentro. This area corresponds to the "old town" and is close to one of the ancient entrance gates, the Porta do Repouso. The surroundings are marked by narrow streets and old buildings, which maintain the city's medieval layout.
This positioning places the convent in a quiet area, with easy pedestrian access and integrated into the oldest nucleus of the city, allowing visitors to absorb the historical and urban atmosphere typical of Faro.
Founded in 1519 by initiative of Queen D. Leonor, wife of D. Manuel I, the convent was intended to house a community of Poor Clares nuns, following the Order of Saint Clare. Construction extended over several decades, with a strong impulse also given by Queen D. Catarina, wife of D. João III.
Throughout the 16th and 17th centuries, the building underwent various alterations and expansions, reflecting stylistic changes and the needs of the religious community. The convent was also subject to repairs after conflict episodes, such as the English invasion in 1596, and suffered significant damage due to the 1755 earthquake, which led to interventions in the 18th century.
The convent combines Renaissance, Manueline, and Baroque elements, revealing the evolution of Portuguese architectural style during the 16th century. One of its most notable aspects is the cloister, built on two floors with elegant arcades, which exemplifies the Renaissance style known as "Coimbrão". This cloister stands out for its classical spatial organization and sober decoration, with buttresses and minimalist-inspired gargoyles.
The annexed church features a longitudinal nave with a barrel vault and a quadrangular chancel covered by a dome decorated with foliage motifs. The main portal displays Corinthian pilasters and a royal coat of arms, evidencing the building's royal connection. The presence of a Renaissance side door and carefully crafted windows completes the ensemble.
Since 1973, the former convent has housed the Infante D. Henrique Municipal Museum, which gathers a significant collection of archaeology, art, and local history. Among the pieces on display are Roman, Islamic, and medieval artifacts, collected from excavations in the region, illustrating Faro's cultural diversity and long history.
The space is also used for temporary exhibitions and cultural events, valorizing local heritage and promoting contact with various forms of art and history.
The museum underwent restoration and modernization works, with a significant intervention concluded in 2023, which greatly improved visiting conditions and access for people with reduced mobility. Elevators, ramps, and pavement improvements were installed, especially in the cloister, ensuring a more comfortable and inclusive experience.
These works maintained the integrity of the historic building, reconciling heritage preservation with contemporary needs for accessibility and functionality.
Sources: https://pt.wikipedia.org/wiki/Convento_de_Nossa_Senhora_da_Assunção_(Faro)
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 37.01270402473771,-7.9337162082227035
Coordinates DMS: 37°00'45.7"N 07°56'1.4"W
Weather Faro
On-duty Pharmacy Faro
