Convento dos Cardaes

Bairro Alto, Chiado & Cais do Sodré


The inconspicuous, graffitied white facade of this 17th-century fort-like convent contrasts with the rich blue-and-white tiles and gilded carvings of the church inside. As one of the few buildings that remained intact after the 1755 earthquake, the convent is a rare example of the Portuguese baroque style in Lisbon. Guided tours take about an hour.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Bairro Alto, Chiado & Cais do Sodré attractions

1. Jardim do Príncipe Real

0.13 MILES

Shaded by a giant cedar tree, this is a relaxing shady plaza with an al fresco cafe for watching the world go slowly by. The surrounding district is…

2. Convento de São Pedro de Alcântara

0.15 MILES

This convent is small in size but grand in baroque decor. The inconspicuous box-like facade hides a chapel (1690s), and a church (1681) that survived the…

3. Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara

0.18 MILES

Hitch a ride on vintage Ascensor da Glória from Praça dos Restauradores, or huff your way up steep Calçada da Glória to this terrific hilltop viewpoint…

4. Jardim Botânico

0.21 MILES

Nurtured by green-fingered students, the Jardim Botânico is a quiet, 1500-species pocket of lushness fresh off a €500,000 renovation that mostly improved…

5. Igreja de Santa Catarina

0.22 MILES

Igreja de Santa Catarina is a gilded baroque masterpiece, originally part of a convent built in 1647. Pay particular attention to the stucco rococo…

6. Praça das Flores

0.23 MILES

One of Lisbon's loveliest squares, Praça das Flores is a leafy gem surrounded by some of Príncipe Real's trendiest hot spots.

7. Igreja & Museu São Roque

0.23 MILES

The plain facade of 16th-century Jesuit Igreja de São Roque belies its dazzling interior of gold, marble and Florentine azulejos – bankrolled by Brazilian…

8. Praça da Alegria

0.26 MILES

Swooping palms and banyan trees shade tranquil Praça da Alegria, which is actually more round than square. Look out for the bronze bust of 19th-century…