J. Gafarot's photos with the keyword: Monastère

In 1581, after the Portuguese defeat in the battle of Alcácer-Quibir, Philip I of Portugal (II of Spain) visited the convent, making a statement that became famous: “Throughout my kingdom, I am very pleased with two things: Escorial, for being so rich, and the Convent of Santa Cruz, for being so poor.”

Located in the middle of the Serra de Sintra, the Convento dos Capuchos contrasts with the lavish and exuberant buildings that exist in Sintra. This Franciscan convent stands out for its simplicity, completely devoid of luxury and comfort.

Also known as Convento da Cortiça, (cork) , the construction of this conventual house was promoted, in 1560, by D. Álvaro de Castro, state advisor to King D. Sebastião, as a result of a vote he made to his father, D. João de Castro , who dreamed of building a stripped-down temple there, dedicated to the practices of contemplation and introspection. This convent, where cork was used extensively in coverings and decoration, was named Convento de Santa Cruz da Serra de Sintra.