During my work trip to Lisbon, the Electoral Commission of Portugal treated us to a private lunch at one of the most breathtaking locations I’ve ever visited—Convento da Arrábida. Perched dramatically on the slopes of the Arrábida Mountains, this secluded monastery overlooks rolling green hills, turquoise waters, and stretches of white sandy beaches. It was, without a doubt, the highlight of my entire trip.

Honestly, as I stood there taking in the view, I couldn’t help but think—medieval hermits and Franciscan monks really knew how to pick a spot.

A Monastery Steeped in History

The monastery was founded in 1542 by the Franciscan friar Martinho of Santa Maria, who was later joined by Diogo of Lisbon, Francisco Pedraita, and St. Peter of Alcântara. For the first two years, they lived in small, simple cells carved into the hillside, embracing a life of solitude and devotion.

As I wandered through these spaces, I couldn’t help but imagine the monks’ daily lives—and, not gonna lie, maybe even a bit of “cell envy” going on. Some rooms definitely had better views than others!

Over time, the monastery expanded into a network of cells, corridors, and communal areas cascading down the mountainside. This peaceful religious community remained here until the 19th century, leaving behind a fascinating glimpse into monastic life.

Simplicity, Austerity… and a Few Surprises

As this was the first monastery I’ve ever visited, what struck me most was the simplicity. The design reflects Franciscan values—humility, austerity, and resourcefulness.

The monks used whatever materials they had available to decorate the space, from broken crockery and seashells to coloured glass embedded into walls and trees. It felt raw, creative, and deeply personal.

And then… there were the skulls. Slightly eerie, definitely unexpected—and I still have no idea who they belonged to or why they’re still there. Safe to say, that added a bit of mystery to the experience.

A Memorable Ending

After the tour, we were treated to a selection of cheese, crackers, and delicious local snacks while chatting with members of the Electoral Commission. Sitting there, surrounded by history and those incredible views, it felt like the perfect way to end such a unique experience.

Shortly after, we made our way back to the coach—but Convento da Arrábida is one of those places that stays with you long after you leave.

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Practical Tips for Visiting Convento da Arrábida

• Location: Situated within Arrábida Natural Park, about a 45-minute drive from Lisbon
• Access: Visits are often guided or pre-booked—check availability in advance
• Best Time to Visit: Spring and early autumn offer the best weather and views
• What to Wear: Comfortable shoes are essential due to uneven paths and hillside terrain
• Combine Your Visit: Pair it with a trip to nearby Setúbal or Arrábida beaches for a full day out

If you have any questions about visiting Lisbon or exploring Convento da Arrábida, feel free to leave them in the comments—I’d love to help! 😊

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