The Convento das Bernardas - A brief History

The Convento das Bernardas, a historical gem in Lisbon, has a rich and multifaceted history, embodying the intricate tapestry of Portuguese culture and architecture.

Founded in 1653 under the patronage of King João IV, the convent, also known as the Monastery of Nossa Senhora da Nazaré, was initially a part of the Cistercian Order.

It's situated in the Santos-o-Velho area of Lisbon and currently houses the fascinating Museu da Marioneta (Puppet Museum).

The 17th-century Portuguese convents, such as the Convento das Bernardas, were more than mere religious institutions. They were centres of education, art, and culture, often playing significant roles in the social and political landscapes of their times.

These convents, characterised by their architectural grandeur and often secluded locations, were symbols of both spiritual devotion and societal status. They served as sanctuaries for women from noble families and became repositories of art and knowledge, reflecting the religious and cultural ethos of 17th-century Portugal.

The convent's early years were marked by its closure to the outside world in January 1655.

The devastating 1755 Lisbon earthquake destroyed parts of its external structure and it was then reconstructed in 1758 by Italian architect Giacomo Azzolini.

During the rebuilding phase, the nuns temporarily relocated to the neighbouring Convento da Esperança.

The convent was eventually reoccupied by the nuns in 1786 until its dissolution in 1834 due to the extinction of religious orders in Portugal.

Post-1834, the building experienced a variety of uses. It served as an academic college, a polytechnic school, and even as a cinema and theatre. Notably, fado singer Hermínia Silva began her career there.

Over the years, it was used for various purposes, including as a headquarters for a philharmonic orchestra and as residential housing, predominantly for low-income families and fishermen from northern Portugal.

The convent's internal spaces, including the cloister and the church, were adapted for different uses such as fishing equipment storage, cinema screenings, and public events.

In 1998, recognising the historical significance and architectural value of the convent, the Lisbon City Council acquired the property.

It was then subjected to extensive rehabilitation, transforming it into a blend of residential, cultural, and commercial spaces.

The former convent now accommodates 34 families and includes the Museu da Marioneta, commercial spaces, a neighbourhood association, and a restaurant located in the old refectory of the nuns, where lies No Convento. The convent, unlike many others, has retained its residential function, integrating modern living within its historic walls.

The site's history is further enriched by the Museu da Marioneta's collection, which includes contributions from Asia, Africa, and Latin America. The museum, situated in the heart of the convent, offers a unique blend of cultural heritage and artistic expression, symbolising the convent's ongoing legacy as a centre of art and community life.

Throughout the centuries, the Convento das Bernardas has witnessed and adapted to various historical shifts, from its initial religious purpose to its contemporary role as a multifaceted cultural and residential complex.

Its story is a testament to Lisbon's dynamic history, showcasing the resilience and adaptability of its heritage structures. The convent stands today not only as a historical landmark but also as a vibrant part of Lisbon's cultural and community life, embodying the fusion of past and present.

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