The Convent of Vila Viçosa was founded by D. Jaime, 4th Duke of Bragança in 1514. It was the richest one because the nuns came from the highest nobility of Portugal, and this assured it received vast rents and annuities, becoming known as the “Rich Nuns Convent.” It was the last Convent to close its doors after the extinction of the religious orders, becoming a possession of the House of Bragança. The last nun died in 1905, putting an end to religious life in the Convent. Since then, the Convent was used as a seminary, summer camp, and in 1997, adapted for a Pousada.
The Convent of Vila Viçosa is adjacent to the Ducal Palace (Royal Palace), opened in 1496. The Convent rooms, hallways and ceilings are filled with fading frescoes and marble staircases. There are 39 rooms and the public spaces inside and outside are large. We visited the Pousada a few years ago and are happy to return as guests.
The Convent of Vila Viçosa is adjacent to the Ducal Palace (Royal Palace), opened in 1496. The Convent rooms, hallways and ceilings are filled with fading frescoes and marble staircases. There are 39 rooms and the public spaces inside and outside are large. We visited the Pousada a few years ago and are happy to return as guests.
