Our Lady of Exile Monastery
Convento Franciscano de Nossa Senhora do Desterro, Caminho do Convento, Monchique 8550-253
Phone: +351 282 912 403
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The earthquake of 1755 wreaked terrible damage on the Franciscan monastery of Our Lady of Exile, which was built in 1632. Today it is a charming ruin, surrounded by trees, with a magnificent view of Monchique and the surrounding hills. The old monastery garden contains the Birds’ Fountain, known locally as Fonte dos Passarinhos. The fountain is decorated with tiles showing birds in a variety of poses. The garden is home to an impressive magnolia tree, which is believed to be the biggest in Europe. The building’s excellent architecture, rare tiles and surrounding gardens are the subject of a restoration project.
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