at a glance

there are three entrances to the building, each with an arch and pediment - the original façade still stands today, built in the mannerist style, which originated in italy as a reaction against the symmetry of form and characteristic of the high renaissance.

the interior of the monastery is truly spectacular with gilded baroque features that showcase the finest rococo design from the seventeenth century to the second half of xviii century.  

master sculptors such as the portuguese monk frei domingos da conceição (1643-1718) and ignatius ferreira pinto (1787 - 1794) were followed by carvers such as simão da cunha, alexandre machado pereira, and  silva and josé da conceição in the decoration of the interiors of the church.

frei domingos da conceição  created the main hoist of the chancel and nave, while the chandeliers, situated near the chancel, were made during the two years between 1781 and 1783 by mestre valentim.