Monasteries in Northern Portugal

In Northern Portugal, the monasteries of Arouca, Grijó, Rendufe, Tibães, Pombeiro and Vilar de Frades stand as significant legacies of monastic religious architecture. Classified as National Monuments or Properties of Public Interest, they are part of a heritage that has endured through time, enhancing the rural or urban surroundings in which they are located.

Within their walls lie the memories of a nation, and on their ground walked historical figures, influential members of the clergy and anonymous pilgrims who often sought refuge in these sacred spaces.

It is said that "faith can move mountains", but the curiosity about who we were also compels us to set out on journeys. Whether or not we are catholic, let us embrace curiosity and wonder. Join us in exploring the network of monasteries in Northern Portugal.

The Monastery of Arouca, exclusively for women since 1154, was donated by King Sancho I to his daughter, D. Mafalda, who was eventually laid to rest here.

It currently houses a magnificent Museum of Sacred Art, considered one of the finest in the Iberian Peninsula. Take your time to admire the various objects of worship, in the furniture, in the liturgical manuscripts, and in the rare pieces of sculpture, painting, tapestry and goldsmithery. Immerse yourself in the symphonies of the past, preserved in the rare music books dating from the 13th to the 19th century, which hold undeniable historical significance.

In the heart of the village of Grijó lies the historic Monastery of São Salvador, an undeniable architectural gem comprising the Church, the sacristy and the cloister with its stone fountain and crown. Classified as a Property of Public Interest in 1938, it is home to the tomb of King Sancho I's illegitimate son, Prince Rodrigo Sanches.

It is believed that the first Monastery of São Salvador de Grijó was founded in 922 in the locality of Muraceses by clerics Guterre and Ausindo Soares. It wasn’t until 1112 that it was moved to its current site. The convent was dissolved in 1770, and its assets were transferred to the Mafra Convent. But the story doesn’t end there. Head to Grijó and find out more.

This monastery, part of the Romanesque Route of Tâmega and Sousa, is one of the oldest in Portugal, with references in documents dating back to 853. It was granted a charter by Dona Teresa in 1112 and was supported by the esteemed Sousões family of Ribavizela.

Thanks to the contributions of the Sousões family and devoted patrons, Pombeiro came to manage 37 churches and enjoyed an impressive annual income. It also served as a refuge for the court and pilgrims on their travels. The monastery was classified as a National Monument on June 23, 1910.

The history of this Benedictine monastery dates back to the time of Count D. Henrique. The original structure, which predates 1090, no longer exists due to later renovations. The current church, completed in 1151 as indicated by an inscription on the floor, features significant baroque woodwork.

In the 18th century, the monastery underwent continuous construction, which completely reformed the church and other monastic buildings. However, many of these structures were lost in a fire in 1877. The story doesn’t end there, as any visitor will see.

Founded in the late 11th century, the Monastery of São Martinho de Tibães was home to monks who adhered to the rules of silence, obedience, poverty, prayer and work, as prescribed by Saint Benedict of Nursia.

With the dissolution of the Religious Orders (1833/34), the monastery was closed, and its assets inventoried and put up for sale, except for the church, the rectory and part of the conventual area, which remained under the ownership of the Portuguese State.

Classified as a Property of Public Interest in 1944, this site, spanning over 40 hectares of history, now hosts a Monument-Museum, a historic garden, an inn and a restaurant. Come visit and take your time exploring this unique space.

It is believed that Bishop Saint Martin of Dumio founded the Benedictine Monastery of Vilar de Frades in 566. Following the Muslim invasions, the monastery fell into ruins but was completely rebuilt five centuries later (1070) by order of D. Godinho Viegas.

The magnificent fountain, once located in the convent courtyard and classified as a National Monument, was relocated to Barcelos in 1967. The current fountain was commissioned by Rector Joaquim Lopes da Costa between 1790 and 1792.

Wherever you go, take the time to meet the locals and strike up a conversation. They, too, carry pieces of this rich Portuguese heritage, woven from countless threads of history. Sit at the table without rushing, nourish your body and mind, and start making plans to visit again.