Convento de São Bento de Cástris

The convent features a Manueline style church with vaulted ceilings and 18th-century tiles depicting scenes from Saint Bernard's life throughout its walls.

Founded in 1274 by Urraca Ximenes, this monastery holds the distinction of being the first female Cistercian establishment south of the Tagus River in Portugal.

The chapter house combines Gothic architecture with Renaissance decorative elements, while the 16th-century Mudejar cloister maintains its original structure.

Located 2 kilometers from Portas da Lagoa on the road to Arraiolos, the convent operates as a cultural center with regular guided tours available.

After six centuries of religious activity, the monastery closed in 1890 and transformed into an agricultural school before housing the male section of Casa Pia.

Location: Malagueira e Horta das Figueiras

Architectural style: Manueline

GPS coordinates: 38.58418,-7.93448

Latest update: March 4, 2025 12:12