Convento de Nossa Senhora do Desterro

The convent complex sits on a hillside above Monchique, featuring remaining structures with stone walls, roofless cloisters, and an altar room.

Founded in 1631 by Pero da Silva, the monastery endured damage from the 1755 earthquake before closing permanently in 1834 through religious orders extinction.

The monastery operated a literacy school for local residents, receiving official authorization to establish educational facilities in 1779 to support the community.

Visitors can reach the monastery through a 15-minute uphill walk from central Monchique, accessing the site despite its location on private property.

Two resident brothers protected the monastery structures from destruction during the 2018 Monchique wildfires, preserving this historical landmark for future generations.

Location: Monchique

GPS coordinates: 37.31963,-8.55985

Latest update: March 15, 2025 01:38