A Journey to the Most Spectacular Convents of the Alentejo

The Alentejo, a region of rolling cork forest, whitewashed hill towns, and ancient traditions, is home to some of Portugal’s most beautiful and historic convents. Once places of monastic devotion, many of these convents were tied directly to the crown, and often hosted kings. Today, many have been transformed into luxury hotels, cultural landmarks, and museums, blending history with modern comfort. Whether perched on fortified hilltops or hidden in charming towns, these convents offer visitors an unforgettable experience of architecture, heritage, and serenity.

The presence of monasteries and convents in Portugal dates back to the Middle Ages, with many founded by religious orders such as the Benedictines, Franciscans, and Dominicans. These institutions played a crucial role in education, agriculture, and community life, shaping the cultural and historical landscape of the region after the Reconquista.

In 1834, after the Liberal Revolution, Portuguese male monasteries and convents were closed down and integrated into the Patrimony of the State, as part of a broader effort to reduce the influence of the Church and redistribute land. Feminine monasteries and convents remained open until the last resident nun passed away, after which they too were closed.

The origins of the Convento do Espinheiro are tied to a legend from the early 1400s, when the Virgin Mary was said to have appeared above a thorn bush (espinheiro). This led to the construction of an oratory in 1412, followed by a church and monastery in 1458, which became home to the Order of St. Jerome.

During the 15th and 16th centuries, the convent became a favored retreat of Portuguese monarchs, including King Afonso V, who prayed here before battle and later offered a silver statue of himself on horseback in gratitude for his victory. His son, King João II, held Parliament at the convent in 1481 and often spent nights in prayer.

Perhaps the most dramatic event in its history involves Princess Isabel of Spain, who stopped at the convent before her marriage to the Crown Prince of Portugal. According to legend, her fiancé visited her in secret, and that very night, lightning struck the convent, leading many to believe it was divine punishment.

Today, Convento do Espinheiro is a luxurious five-star hotel, where guests can stay in beautifully restored monastic rooms, dine in a restaurant set in the old wine cellar, and explore the magnificent cloisters, chapels, and royal chambers once visited by kings and queens. Enjoy a fine-dining experience in the old wine cellar. The hotel’s spa and gardens provide a perfect setting for relaxation, while its proximity to Évora, a UNESCO World Heritage city, makes it an ideal base for exploring the region.

Location: Évora

Built in 1182 by the São Paulo Hermit Monks, this convent is surrounded by the tranquil Serra d’Ossa mountians, making it a peaceful retreat. It is famous for its remarkable collection of azulejos (Portuguese tiles)—more than 5,000 hand-painted pieces.

The convent was a frequent refuge for Portuguese monarchs, including King Sebastião, King João IV, and Queen Catarina de Bragança. A particularly intriguing artifact is a restored canvas in the convent’s library, which harkens back to King Sebastião’s visit in 1577, just before his fateful disappearance in battle.

Today, the convent is a sophisticated hotel, offering visitors a chance to experience centuries-old architecture, tile work, and a serene landscapes. Guests can dine in the ancient cloisters, enjoy the stillness of the countryside, or savor traditional Alentejo cuisine at the restaurant. The convent’s historic charm and amazing views make it perfect for those seeking a quiet escape.

Location: Serra d’Ossa, between Estremoz and Redondo

Founded in the 16th century by D. Jaime, 4th Duke of Bragança, this convent was originally built as a pantheon for the noblewomen of the House of Bragança. However, it later became home to the Poor Clares of Beja, who lived cloistered there for more than three centuries.. Located next to the royal Ducal Palace of Vila Viçosa, this convent was closely tied to the House of Bragança, Portugal’s last royal dynasty.

Traces of their secluded life remain visible, including an oratory once used to communicate with the outside world. Through a wooden revolving wheel, food and even abandoned infants were passed to the nuns, a testament to the convent’s role as a place of refuge.

Although many monasteries were dissolved after the ecclesiastical reforms of 1834, this convent remained active until the last nun passed away in 1905. It later served as a seminary before falling into decline, but in the 1990s, it was restored and transformed into a historic pousada. The elegantly restored rooms maintain their historic charm, with antique furniture and frescoed ceilings. The convent’s peaceful courtyards and gardens provide a perfect setting for contemplation, while the on-site restaurant serves authentic Alentejo cuisine.

Location: Vila Viçosa

Unlike most convents in the Alentejo, which were built on high ground, this one sits in Vale Formoso (also known as Vale das Flores), a valley where natural springs create an unusually green landscape in this typically dry region.

Originally a convent, it later functioned as a farm, before being abandoned between the 19th and 20th centuries. The Portuguese State acquired the property in 1980, and after nearly a decade of restoration, it opened as a pousada in 1997.

A highlight of its restoration is the modern dining hall, gym, and indoor pool, all offering breathtaking views of the valley and Arraiolos Castle. The convent is also close to the Arraiolos Tapestry Museum, where visitors can learn about the town’s famous embroidered carpets.

Location: Arraiolos

One of the gems of the Alentejo, the Convento do Carmo in Moura dates back to the 13th century. Founded around 1251, this was the first Carmelite convent in Portugal and is closely linked to the Knights of the Order of St. John of Jerusalem (Order of Malta). The monks who established it are believed to have traveled from the Holy Land, bringing with them two Portuguese friars who played a key role in its foundation.

Despite suffering economic and political challenges, the convent remained one of the wealthiest in Portugal. Its 16th-century cloisters and historical features still stand, offering a glimpse into the medieval and Renaissance periods.

Originally named for Santa Maria tranquil gardens, quiet courtyards, and historic architecture, the convent provides an authentic taste of Portugal’s monastic heritage. Moura itself is known for its olive oil production and has a rich cultural history waiting to be explored.

Location: Moura

This ancient convent, located in the cork forests of Portalegre, was once home to monks from Serra de Ossa, who grew crops to sustain both themselves and the local poor. The convent was named "Provença" due to its fertile land and natural springs, which made it ideal for agriculture. The convent’s medieval stone walls and simple design reflect the region’s monastic past, while its modern accommodations create a special atmosphere. Built around 1530 by Bishop D. Jorge de Melo, the  rooms have retained many of their original features.

Today, Convento da Provença has been converted into a charming rural hotel, where visitors can experience the tranquility of monastic life, explore its preserved medieval structures, and an excellent base for hiking, wildlife spotting, and exploring the historic city of Portalegre.

Location: Portalegre

One of the most beautiful and important convents in the Alentejo is the Convento de Nossa Senhora da Conceição in Beja. Founded in 1459 by Princes Fernando and Brites, parents of King Manuel I, the Convento da Conceição was built to house Claris nuns, the female branch of the Franciscan Order. The construction continued through the reigns of King João II (1481-1495) and King Manuel I (1495-1521), with both monarchs contributing significantly to the convent’s artistic and architectural grandeur.

This convent holds a special place in the artistic and cultural history of southern Portugal, as it is considered one of the finest examples of late-Gothic architecture in the Alentejo. Influences from the Monastery of Batalha can be seen in the intricate vegetal motifs on the main entrance and the ornate stonework that adorns the façade. The Manueline style, which became prominent in Portugal during King Manuel I’s reign, is evident in the twisted rope carvings, spires, and grand entranceway to the dining hall.

One of the most captivating features of the convent is its cloisters, located on the south side of the church. These house stunning 16th-century tiles from Seville, as well as 17th- and 18th-century Portuguese azulejos, offering visitors a visual journey through the evolution of tile art in Portugal.

Today, Convento da Conceição is an architectural gem and a must-visit for history and art lovers exploring Beja and the Alentejo.

Location: Beja

The convents of the Alentejo offer a rare combination of history, architecture, and setting. Whether transformed into luxury hotels or preserved as cultural landmarks, these sacred spaces allow visitors to experience Portugal’s past in an unequaled way.