Category: Religious Architecture > Convent
District: Lisboa > Lisboa > Lisboa > Pena
The imposing architectural complex known today as the main building of Hospital de São José is situated in the heart of Lisbon, in the area that once corresponded to the parish of Pena, a zone of great centrality and movement in the Portuguese capital. Its location grants it a striking presence in the urban fabric, standing out for its size and the richness of its past, integrated into a dynamic and historically significant urban context.
This easily accessible and visible site is integrated into the Lisbon landscape as a secular testament to the city's transformations, rising as an undeniable landmark for those traversing the streets and squares of this vibrant metropolis.
The building has its roots in the grand pedagogical and religious vision of the Jesuits, who established here, in the 16th century, the Convent College of Santo Antão-o-Novo. This college was one of the most prestigious centers of teaching and knowledge in Portugal and Europe, renowned for the quality of its education in various fields of knowledge, from theology to science.
After the expulsion of the Society of Jesus, by order of the Marquis of Pombal, in 1759, and following the devastating earthquake of 1755, which destroyed the Royal Hospital of Todos os Santos in Praça da Figueira, the grand building of the former Jesuit college was adapted to house one of the most important health institutions in the country. Thus, in 1771, it was reborn as Hospital de São José, honoring the memory of King D. José I and perpetuating its function of service to the community, albeit with a new purpose.
The structure of the former Convent College of Santo Antão-o-Novo is a notable example of Joanine period architecture, with elements transitioning between Mannerism and Baroque. It is characterized by its monumental scale, revealing the importance and grandeur of the original institution. The spacious interior courtyards, once cloisters for contemplation and study, and the severity of its main facade, reflect the sober and imposing style that the Jesuits imprinted on their constructions.
Even after its conversion into a hospital, the original architectural design was largely preserved, allowing one to contemplate its volumes and spatial conception. The building remains a landmark of conventual and collegiate architecture that, centuries later, continues to fulfill a vital function for the city, keeping alive the memory of a legacy of knowledge and humanity inscribed in its stones.
Sources: https://pt.wikipedia.org/wiki/Colégio_de_Santo_Antão
https://pt.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hospital_de_São_José
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 38.716791489878084,-9.13710474322771
Coordinates DMS: 38°43'0.4"N 09°08'13.6"W
Weather Lisboa
On-duty Pharmacy Lisboa
