Convento de São Francisco or Convento de Nossa Senhora da Esperança

Category: Religious Architecture > Convent

District: Faro > Portimão > Portimão > Praia da Rocha

Convent History

Built in the 16th century as a Franciscan monastic house and later used as a cork deposit and warehouse linked to the canning industry.

Architectural Importance

The convent presents elements of artistic interest, such as the Mannerist cloister and the Manueline portal of the chapter room.

Privileged Location

Located on the western bank of the Arade River, near the port, and offers one of the first views of the city of Portimão for visitors arriving by sea.

Points of Interest

Highlights include the church, with a simple structure and a main chapel renovated in the Mannerist period, and the cloister with ribbed vaults.

State of Conservation

The convent reached an advanced state of degradation, but was classified as a Property of Public Interest in 1993.

Rehabilitation Attempts

Proposals for the rehabilitation and conversion of the monument into a hotel unit or an educational establishment have been made, but without success so far.

Proximity to the Municipal Museum of Portimão

In the vicinity of the convent is located the Municipal Museum, providing visitors with an opportunity to explore more about the history of the region.

Religious Significance

The convent church, dedicated to Our Lady of Hope, was an object of great devotion for the inhabitants, especially navigators and fishermen.

Tombs and Coats of Arms

Inside the convent, tombs of historical figures, such as Simão Correia, and coats of arms dating back to ancient patrons can be found.

View of the Ruins

Even in its state of ruin, the convent offers an impressive view, especially when viewed from the south.

Sources: https://pt.wikipedia.org/wiki/Convento_de_São_Francisco_(Portimão)

License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt