Mosteiro de Santa Marinha da Costa

Nestled on the lush slopes of Monte da Penha, overlooking the historic city of Guimarães, the Mosteiro de Santa Marinha da Costa is a magnificent testament to Portugal's rich monastic heritage. This ancient monastery, now transformed into a luxurious pousada, invites visitors to step back in time and explore its storied halls and serene gardens.

The Historical Tapestry of the Monastery

The origins of the Mosteiro de Santa Marinha da Costa are steeped in legend and history. Believed to have been built upon a small 9th-century temple, the site reveals traces of pre-Roman and Roman occupation. This sacred ground is thought to have once been the residence of the counts of Portugal, with its church serving as a palatine chapel.

In the late 11th century, the site was transformed into a monastery, initially under the care of the Augustinian canons. For over 350 years, they expanded the church and constructed new cloisters, shaping the monastery into a center of spiritual and intellectual life.

The Order of Saint Jerome

The monastery's fortunes changed in 1528 when Pope Clement VII established the Order of Saint Jerome here. This marked a new chapter, with the monastery becoming a hub for humanities and theological studies. The presence of royal students, including sons of King Manuel I and King John III, attests to its prestige. Significant artistic and architectural enhancements were made during this period, including a new cloister and a remarkable altarpiece by the renowned Portuguese Renaissance artist, Frei Carlos.

From Ruin to Revival

The monastery's decline began with the dissolution of male religious orders in Portugal, leading to its abandonment and eventual sale to private owners. A devastating fire in 1951 left much of the structure in ruins, with only a few elements like the stone staircase to the Chapter House surviving the flames.

In 1972, the Portuguese state acquired the property, initiating a comprehensive restoration led by architect Fernando Távora. This project, which won the National Architecture Prize in 1987, not only preserved the monastery's historical essence but also adapted it into a pousada, offering modern comforts amidst its ancient walls.

Exploring the Pousada

Today, the Pousada de Santa Marinha offers guests a unique blend of history and luxury. The entrance, once the monastery's refectory, still features the granite frame that held the pulpit for mealtime readings. The bar occupies the former kitchen, leading to the elegant restaurant.

Throughout the pousada, archaeological remnants of its pre-Roman and Roman past are visible, providing a tangible connection to its ancient origins. The cloister's northwest corner is particularly noteworthy, with the base of a tower featuring a Mozarabic door from the pre-Romanesque period.

A Garden of Tranquility

The monastery's gardens are a serene retreat, with boxwood hedges and pathways lined with centuries-old trees. Visitors can wander among diverse plant species and discover a small stream feeding a circular pond at the garden's summit. An old mill, lovingly restored, adds to the picturesque charm of this verdant sanctuary.

A Timeless Experience

Staying at the Pousada de Santa Marinha is more than just a visit; it's an immersion into a world where history and nature coexist harmoniously. The monastery's transformation into a pousada has preserved its cultural legacy while providing guests with an unforgettable experience.

Whether you're a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply seeking a peaceful escape, the Mosteiro de Santa Marinha da Costa offers a journey through time in one of Portugal's most enchanting settings. Its walls echo with the whispers of centuries past, inviting you to explore the stories and secrets of this remarkable landmark.