Museum
The Convent of Nossa Senhora da Conceição dos Cardaes was founded by D. Luísa Távora in 1681 for the Discalced Carmelite nuns. It follows 17th century architecture and is adapted to the strict Carmelite rules, which limited contact with the world. The exterior is robust and austere, but inside you'll find various decorative treasures.
The 19th century would profoundly mark the convent's history. After the extinction of the Religious Orders and the death of the last Carmelite nun in 1876, the convent was given to the Nossa Senhora Consoladora dos Aflitos Association and an Asylum for Blind Women was created here, under the direction of the Association and with the help and care of the Dominican Sisters.
In the presente day the Cardaes Convent continues to welcome young women with special needs, who find a home, comfort and family here.
Therefore, by visiting the Cardaes Convent, a Living Convent, you are also helping the community living here and contributing to our history in the making.
In fact, there are many reasons to visit this place. The paintings attributed to António Pereira Ravasco and André Gonçalves. The convent withstood the 1755 earthquake with almost scarce signs of destruction, and it is now a unique architectural ensemble in the city of Lisbon. The sacred art heritage is rare in uniqueness and in the specificity of each piece, all preserved to this day, as the Convent never stopped its religious activity. The various museum spaces, such as the Refectory with red sucupira tables, decorative tile panels and 17th and 18th century paintings, among many others, are unique in the country. Namely the golden layered altars and the dutch tiles in the church, as well as the upper level paintings attributed to António Pereira Ravasco and André Gonçalves.
Information
Opening hours:
Wednesday to Monday, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.
(last entry at 16:30)
​
Prices:
General public: 7€
Over 65s: 5€
Students: 5€
Children: 3€
(6 to 12 years old)
Family ticket: 17€
(2 adults+2 children up to 17 years old)
​
​
Contact:
Booking visits: visitas@conventodoscardaes.com
Other Museum-related matters: museu@conventodoscardaes.com
​