Convento dos Capuchos

The stretch of coast along Costa da Caparica is home to a slightly strange geological feature where the cliffs rise not from the sea, but several hundred metres inland. This is most pronounced in the resort town itself where behind the apartment blocks is a small plain with fields. Suddenly, a steep escarpment rises up, and it is here that you will find the 16th century Convento dos Capuchos.

As you can imagine the convent commands a spectacular sweeping panorama over the coast below. In fact there is a viewpoint (miradouro) here from which you can see Lisbon and the hills of Sintra beyond.

The convent itself dates back to 1558, although it was nearly completely destroyed in the 1755 earthquake. The only section of the original building to survive was the elegant façade with its triple portico.

The convent has long ceased to function as a church and now operates as a venue for concerts and music recitals, most notably the  International Music Festival of the Capuchos. It is worth visiting at anytime for the views and a stroll around the pleasant gardens. You may also come across the small chapel dedicated to St Anthony with its interior beautifully decorated with sea shells.