Ruins of St. Dominic convent
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On top of Montejunto mountain, close to N. Sra. das Neves (Our Lady of the Snows) chapel, are vestiges of the first convent of St. Dominic Order in Portugal. Initially built in 1218, shortly after the arrival to Portugal of Friar Soeiro Gomes, the current ruins are the result of rebuilding (on the original convent) took place in the eighteenth century, upon return of the Dominicans. Although in ruins it is a great monument to visit, with proper care, given the dangers ruins always contain.
Along the slope can be seen the convent stonewalk (also from the eighteenth century) which served the construction and use of Our Lady of the Snows Convent. Animals and carts have transported building materials such as stone, masonry, bricks and decorative materials, like tiles to line the interior walls, as well as supplies for the workers and for everyday use of the Dominican friars, who lived here. The sidewalk ended at the door of a walled outdoor patio where the goods were unloaded to be stored. The Walk of Friars, as it is known, was also used by pilgrims to access to the chapel of Our Lady of the Snows. Now it is not used since there is a modern road.
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On top of Montejunto mountain, close to N. Sra. das Neves (Our Lady of the Snows) chapel, are vestiges of the first convent of St. Dominic Order in Portugal. Initially built in 1218, shortly after the arrival to Portugal of Friar Soeiro Gomes, the current ruins are the result of rebuilding (on the original convent) took place in the eighteenth century, upon return of the Dominicans. Although in ruins it is a great monument to visit, with proper care, given the dangers ruins always contain.
Along the slope can be seen the convent stonewalk (also from the eighteenth century) which served the construction and use of Our Lady of the Snows Convent. Animals and carts have transported building materials such as stone, masonry, bricks and decorative materials, like tiles to line the interior walls, as well as supplies for the workers and for everyday use of the Dominican friars, who lived here. The sidewalk ended at the door of a walled outdoor patio where the goods were unloaded to be stored. The Walk of Friars, as it is known, was also used by pilgrims to access to the chapel of Our Lady of the Snows. Now it is not used since there is a modern road.
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Lisboa e Vale do Tejo
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Cadaval
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Serra de Montejunto Protected Landscape
Identification and Access
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Yes
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Access coming from:
- Alenquer (more or less 24 km) – take N9, N365 and N115. After Vila Verde dos Francos follow to Montejunto street to the top of the hills*; or
- Cadaval (more or less 14 km) – take N115-N115-1 direction Pragança. Pass this village and continue to Montejunto hills*.
*Follow the signs to Capela/N. Sra. das Neves.
GPS: 39.174610, -9.058996
Base Characterization
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Cultural Historical
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St Dominic friars.
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On top of Montejunto mountain.
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Public
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Eighteenth century
Tips
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On August, takes place a pilgrimage to Nossa Senhora das Neves (Our Lady of the Snows) chapel, so take time to see the tile panel in the aisle alluding to the history of the Dominican order.
