Category: Religious Architecture > Convent
District: Lisboa > Lisboa > Lisboa > Carnide
The Convent of Santa Teresa de Jesus de Carnide is serenely situated in the parish of Carnide, a historic and traditional area of the city of Lisbon. This location gives it a unique atmosphere, slightly set apart from the hustle and bustle of the capital's center, embedded in surroundings that still preserve some of their ancient layout and a sense of local community. Its presence in Carnide's urban fabric contributes to the identity and memory of that area, offering a perspective on the city's evolution.
This convent, with origins dating back to the 17th century, specifically to 1642, was a foundation of particular significance. Its creation was due to the initiative of Abbess Teresa da Cunha and had the support of King D. João IV, who intended it for the Discalced Carmelite nuns. Throughout the centuries, the convent served as an important center of monastic life, a refuge for contemplation and study, influencing the religious and social life of the region. It survived significant events, such as the 1755 earthquake, albeit with damage that required subsequent restoration work, adapting to the successive transformations of Portuguese society, including the extinction of religious orders in 1834.
The architecture of the Convent of Santa Teresa de Jesus de Carnide reflects its original vocation and the simplicity inherent in the Discalced Carmelite Order. It is characterized by an exterior sobriety that sometimes contrasts with the richness of the interior decorative elements. The church, an integral part of the complex, features a style that, while austere in its general conception, reveals details of Portuguese Baroque, especially in its altars and chancel. Noteworthy are the azulejo tile coverings, a distinctive element of Portuguese art, which tell stories or adorn the spaces with geometric and figurative patterns, imbuing the complex with a discreet yet captivating beauty and an atmosphere conducive to introspection.
Visiting the Convent of Santa Teresa de Jesus de Carnide is to immerse oneself in a space that evokes centuries of history and spirituality. Despite transformations over time and the different uses of some of its wings, the essence of the convent remains palpable, especially in its church and original architectural elements. The site invites contemplation and an understanding of the importance of religious institutions in shaping Lisbon's cultural identity. It is a silent testament to the devotion and monastic life that once filled its corridors and cloisters, offering visitors an experience of serenity and an authentic connection to the city's past.
Sources: https://pt.wikipedia.org/wiki/Convento_de_Santa_Teresa_de_Jesus_de_Carnide
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 38.761672699475355,-9.189355945639226
Coordinates DMS: 38°45'42.0"N 09°11'21.7"W
Weather Lisboa
On-duty Pharmacy Lisboa
