The beginning
In an attempt to survive the closing down of several convents and monasteries in Portugal, the clergy began to sell sweet pastries, which were called Pasteis de Belém.
Once news spread, the factory — now turned into a patisserie — became a must-see reference point.
![Artisanal Process]( "Artisanal Process")
Artisanal Process
Production of the traditional Pastel de Belém began in 1837. The recipe is old: it dates back to the nineteenth century and it has remained uncharged. To this day, the Pastéis de Belém recipe is one of the best kept secrets in Lisbon.