Convento dos Capuchos de Nossa Senhora da Piedade, 16th century Franciscan monastery in Caparica e Trafaria, Portugal
Convento dos Capuchos is a 16th century Franciscan monastery in Caparica e Trafaria featuring a triple portico with simple columns and a central arch as its main architectural element. The site now contains two exhibition galleries that present the history and daily life of the friars who lived here.
Lourenco Pires de Tavora founded the monastery in 1558 for Franciscan friars of the strictest observance from the Arrabida Province. This establishment reflected the religious movement of the period that saw monasteries built across Portuguese territories to serve both spiritual and local needs.
The monastery displays Franciscan Order symbols and the Tavora family coat of arms on its facade, showing the close ties between Portuguese nobility and monastic life. These marks on the walls reflect how religious communities and local families shaped each other's history.
The site is accessible on foot and visitors should allow time to explore both the exhibition galleries and the grounds. A viewing platform on the property offers panoramic views of the surrounding coastal landscape, making it a good place to orient yourself and plan your visit.
From the monastery's viewpoint, visitors can see across the Tagus River to the Costa da Caparica, the Lisbon coastline, and the towns of Estoril and Cascais spread along the far shore. This panorama reveals why the friars chose this specific elevated location to build their community.
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