Carmo Convent (Convento do Carmo)
is a part-ruined medieval convent in Lisbon which is now used as an archaeological museum.
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Built in 1389, Carmo Convent was the work of Nuno Ãlvares Pereira, an important figure in Portuguese military history – including in the victory at the Battle of Aljubarrota – turned member of the Carmelite Order.
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In 1755, Carmo Convent was devastated by an earthquake and its picturesque ruins are now open to the public. The convent is also now home to the Museu Arqueologico do Carmo, with its collection ranging from prehistoric to medieval artefacts.
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The monastery was founded in 1389 and by 1423, the residential cells were completed, allowing the Carmelites friars to inhabit the building.
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It is known for its plain Gothic style, and compared to other churches in the area.
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A devastating earthquake in 1755 caused the arches and roof to cave in on the congregation as they were attending mass. It also completely destroyed the library, which housed approximately 5,000 volumes.
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Minor repairs were carried out, but the convent was never fully repaired; instead, it was occupied by quarters of the Guarda Real de Policia (Police Royal Guard), used as a law court, rented out as a sawmilling shop. In the mid-19th century, used as a station for a municipal guard and cavalry squadron.
Created Sept 2022
Zlatko