CARMO CONVENT

Explore the ruins of this Gothic church that are a poignant reminder of the massive 18th century earthquake when this was the largest church in Lisbon. The place where the main altar once was, there is now a small archaeological museum which houses a collection of tombs, statuary, ceramics, and mosaics. There are several other noteworthy pieces that are preserved here making it one of the important Portugal places to visit.

Once the largest church of Lisbon, this Gothic structure was destroyed during the 1755 earthquake and today lies in a state of ruin. You can explore the small archaeological museum that is now housed where the altar once was and admire the eclectic collection of artifacts preserved here. There are several tombs including that of King Ferdinand I statue, ceramics, and mosaics. You can also see the remnant of a Visigothic pillar and a Roman tomb that has been carved with motifs that depict the Muses. 

Some of the other pieces of interest include South American mummies, shrunken heads, a jasper sculpture of the Virgin Mary, Visigothic artifacts, ancient tombstones, and coins that go back to the 13th century. When you enter the museum, you can witness a stone that has Gothic letters engraved on it that tells visitors that Pope Clement VII has granted 40 days of indulgence to "any faithful Christian" here.

Highlights

• Walk through the archaeological museum that lies in the ruins of this church and witness the collection of tombs and other artifacts preserved here.
• Witness other noteworthy pieces such as mummies from South Africa, shrunken heads, a sculpture of the Virgin Mary, as well as ancient coins, among others.
• Learn about the worst earthquake that hit the city that made massive damages to its people and property.
• Look for the stone near the gate of the museum that has Gothic lettering engraved on it that tells visitors that Pope Clement VII has granted 40 days of indulgence to "any faithful Christian" who is visiting the church.