Tibães Monastery
Braga
The Monastery of St Martin of Tibães is a significant Benedictine monastery located near Braga in northern Portugal. Founded around 1060, it became the mother house of the Benedictine order for Portugal and Brazil in 1567, playing a central role in religious and artistic life. The current architectural ensemble mainly dates from the 17th and 18th centuries, following extensive reconstruction that replaced earlier medieval structures. The church is renowned for its exuberant Rococo interior, featuring gilded woodwork by José de Santo António Vilaça and sculptures by Cipriano da Cruz, with the main altarpiece and other woodworks designed by André Soares between 1757 and 1760. The monastery was an influential artistic center that shaped Baroque and Rococo art in northern Portugal and its overseas colonies. After decline and damage from fire in the 19th century, the site became state property in 1986 and has been undergoing restoration. It remains a cultural monument and a testament to Portuguese religious and artistic heritage.
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Tip: Visitors should consider visiting during spring and early autumn for pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Booking guided tours in advance is recommended to fully appreciate the monastery's art and history. Tickets may offer discounts for students and seniors. The official website provides updated visiting hours and special event information.
Interesting facts
- •The monastery served as the mother house for the Benedictine order in both Portugal and Brazil.
- •Its church interior is a landmark of Portuguese Rococo art, with gilded woodwork by José de Santo António Vilaça.
- •Architect André Soares designed the main altarpiece and several key woodworks between 1757 and 1760.
- •The monastery once held vast estates covering multiple parishes in northern Portugal.
- •It suffered a devastating fire in 1894 that destroyed significant parts of the complex.
- •The site is classified as a National Monument and is still undergoing restoration efforts.
History
The monastery was founded around 1060 and granted feudal rights by Henry of Burgundy in 1110, becoming a major landholder in northern Portugal.
In 1567, it was designated the mother house of the Benedictine order for Portugal and Brazil, prompting extensive rebuilding in the 17th and 18th centuries.
The church was constructed between 1628 and 1661 in Mannerist style, with later Rococo additions by André Soares in the mid-18th century.
After the dissolution of religious orders in 1834, the monastery was sold and fell into decay, suffering a major fire in 1894.
It was acquired by the state in 1986 and has been under restoration since.
Place Guide
Church of St Martin1628-1661 (construction), 1757-1760 (Rococo additions)
The church is the centerpiece of the monastery, showcasing exuberant Rococo interior decoration, including gilded woodwork, intricate altarpieces, pulpits, and statues by renowned artists such as José de Santo António Vilaça and Cipriano da Cruz, designed mainly by André Soares in the 18th century.
Refectory and Cemetery Cloisters17th century
These cloisters were part of the 17th-century reconstruction and originally included the refectory, which was destroyed by fire in 1894. The cloisters are significant for their architectural style and historical function within the monastery complex.
Monastery Gardens and Baroque Staircase18th century
The gardens feature elegant Baroque fountains and an aqueduct, culminating in a grand Baroque staircase leading to the Chapel of St Benedict. This area reflects the monastery's artistic influence beyond the church interior.
Library and Chapter HouseEarly 18th century
Finished by the early 18th century, these rooms were central to the monastic community's intellectual and administrative life, housing important religious texts and serving as meeting spaces for the order's leadership.
Contact
Phone: 253 717 900
