The mysteries of the Convento do Carmo: the mummies

Located in the heart of Lisbon, Portugal, the Convento do Carmo stands as a unique testament to history. Although most visitors are drawn to its stunning Gothic architecture, it is what lies within the convent that truly captivates the imagination – a collection of mummies dating back several centuries.

The Convento do Carmo was founded in 1389 as a place of contemplation and devotion by the Carmelite Order. Throughout the centuries, it underwent several expansions and renovations, reflecting different architectural styles. However, it was severely damaged during the catastrophic earthquake that struck Lisbon in 1755, leaving only a partial shell of the once-grand building intact.

Within the ruins of the Convento do Carmo lies the Archaeological Museum of Carmo. This museum houses a vast collection of artifacts, including the enigmatic mummies that continue to fascinate both locals and tourists alike. These well-preserved bodies were discovered during various archaeological excavations in the 1960s.

One of the most notable mummies in the collection is that of a young girl, known as “The Sleeping Beauty.” Found in the region of Beira Alta, she was remarkably preserved, still adorned in her finest clothes. Visitors are captivated by her serene expression, as if she might wake from her slumber at any moment. While her identity remains unknown, it is believed that she lived during the 17th or 18th century.

Another intriguing mummy is that of Bernardo who lived during the 13th century. Remarkably, his body appears naturally preserved with hardened skin, leaving much of his skeletal structure exposed. His face, frozen in time, displays an expression of both tranquility and pain. The circumstances of his death and preservation remain a mystery that continues to puzzle historians and scientists.

The Convento do Carmo mummies offer a unique insight into the rituals and customs surrounding death in Portugal’s history. The meticulous mummification process practiced by the Carmelite Order was aimed at memorializing important figures within the community. However, the identities of many of the mummies remain unknown, leaving room for speculation and wonder.

Scientists and researchers have invested considerable efforts in studying the mummies, using modern technologies to unravel their secrets. The examination of DNA samples and isotopic analysis of their teeth has provided valuable information about their origins, diets, and even possible causes of death. These scientific investigations shed light on the lives of these individuals, revealing links to historical events and shedding new perspectives on the past.

Visiting the collection of mummies at the Convento do Carmo provides an eerie, yet awe-inspiring experience. As visitors walk through the ancient ruins, they are transported back in time, contemplating the mysteries surrounding these preserved bodies. The silence within the museum creates an atmosphere of reverence as countless questions arise in one’s mind: Who were these people? What were their stories? Why were they preserved?

The Convento do Carmo and its mummies serve as a solemn reminder of the passage of time and the impermanence of life. They offer a unique glimpse into the lives of those who came before us, allowing us to reflect on our own mortality. As the centuries continue to pass, the mysteries surrounding these mummies may never be fully unraveled, but their captivating presence is a testament to the curiosity and eternal search for knowledge inherent in human nature.