Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Nova
A 17th-century Baroque gem, this monastery offers a peaceful escape with stunning art and royal tombs, a testament to Coimbra's enduring history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peace
Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Nova
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peace
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 17th-century Baroque gem, this monastery offers a peaceful escape with stunning art and royal tombs, a testament to Coimbra's enduring history.
"A beautiful place to visit, and a great personal guided tour of the monastery!"
⏳ Allow 20-25 Minutes
Most visitors find 20-25 minutes sufficient to explore the monastery and its highlights. :stopwatch:
🚗 Parking Available
Convenient parking is available on-site for visitors arriving by car. :car:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Baroque Art & Architecture
Marvel at the intricate Baroque art and elegant architecture that define this well-preserved monastery.
Elegant Cloisters
Wander through the peaceful cloisters, experiencing a profound sense of calm and reflection.
Royal Tombs
See the Gothic tombs of Queen Elizabeth and other royal princesses, a testament to the monastery's historical significance.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Tranquility
Understanding the Monastery's History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
⏳ Allow 20-25 Minutes
Most visitors find 20-25 minutes sufficient to explore the monastery and its highlights. :stopwatch:
🚗 Parking Available
Convenient parking is available on-site for visitors arriving by car. :car:
🎟️ Entrance Fee Supports Renovation
Your paid entrance contributes directly to the ongoing renovation of this beautiful historical site. :moneybag:
🕊️ Experience True Peace
The cloister offers a real sense of peace, making it a highlight for many visitors. :dove:
Tips
from all over the internet
⏳ Allow 20-25 Minutes
Most visitors find 20-25 minutes sufficient to explore the monastery and its highlights. :stopwatch:
🚗 Parking Available
Convenient parking is available on-site for visitors arriving by car. :car:
🎟️ Entrance Fee Supports Renovation
Your paid entrance contributes directly to the ongoing renovation of this beautiful historical site. :moneybag:
🕊️ Experience True Peace
The cloister offers a real sense of peace, making it a highlight for many visitors. :dove:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Nova to be a beautiful and well-preserved site, offering a peaceful retreat with stunning Baroque art and elegant cloisters. Many appreciate its historical significance, particularly the royal tombs, and note that the entrance fee supports its upkeep. It's considered a worthwhile, albeit brief, visit.
"The Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Nova is a stunning contrast to its older counterpart. Bright, well-preserved, and filled with beautiful Baroque art, it offers a peaceful retreat. Exploring its elegant cloisters and intricate chapels, I felt a deep connection to Coimbra’s rich religious history."
Esrf G
"Great part of Portugal history in a best place. If you're catholic as well."
ej as
"Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Nova
Type: Monastery
Time spent: 20-25 min
Parking: available
Bike parking: not available
Entrance: paid
WC: available
The Monastery of Santa Clara of Coimbra was founded in the early 14th century near the river Mondego by Queen Elizabeth of Portugal, wife of King Dinis I.
Through the centuries, the church and monastic buildings were repeatedly flooded by the Mondego. In the 17th century, under the rule of King John IV, it was decided that a new monastery was to be built for the religious community. Construction works began in 1649, and the church was finished by 1696. All nuns as well as the Gothic tombs of Queen Elizabeth and other royal princesses were transferred to the new monastery, therefore called "Santa Clara-a-Nova"."
Oleh Shpytko
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Nova is accessible by car, with parking available on-site. Public transport options may require further research depending on your starting point in Coimbra. :bus:
Yes, parking is available at the Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Nova, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car. :car:
Bike parking is not available at the Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Nova, so it's best to consider other transport if cycling. :bicycle:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is a paid entrance fee for the Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Nova. Visitors note that this fee contributes to the renovation efforts. :ticket:
Opening hours can vary, so it's recommended to check the official website or local listings before your visit. :clock:
Most visitors spend around 20-25 minutes exploring the monastery, taking in its art and peaceful atmosphere. :stopwatch:
Absolutely! The monastery is a significant historical and architectural site, appreciated by visitors of all backgrounds for its beauty and history. :world_map:
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Many visitors highlight the elegant cloisters for their sense of peace and the beautiful Baroque art and architecture throughout the monastery. :sparkles:
Yes, restroom facilities (WC) are available for visitors at the Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Nova. :toilet:
Built in the 17th century to escape river floods, it houses the Gothic tombs of Queen Elizabeth and other royal princesses, preserving a crucial part of Portugal's history. :scroll:
Yes, with an average visit time of 20-25 minutes, it's an ideal stop for those looking for a meaningful yet brief cultural experience. :fast_forward:
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary. It's advisable to check for any signage or ask staff upon arrival to ensure you're respecting the rules. :camera:
The cloisters often provide beautiful light and architectural backdrops. The intricate details of the Baroque art also make for stunning shots. :iphone:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🏛️ History Buffs
🕊️ Seekers of Peace and Quiet
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Tale of Two Monasteries: Santa Clara-a-Velha vs. Santa Clara-a-Nova
The construction of Santa Clara-a-Nova began in 1649, and its church was completed by 1696. This new structure not only offered protection from the elements but also allowed for the creation of a magnificent Baroque masterpiece. The transfer of the nuns and, crucially, the Gothic tombs of Queen Elizabeth of Portugal and other royal princesses from the old monastery to the new one cemented its importance and continuity. Visitors today can appreciate the successful preservation of this significant historical and religious site, a stark contrast to the evocative ruins of its predecessor.
While Santa Clara-a-Velha offers a glimpse into the past through its excavated ruins, Santa Clara-a-Nova provides a more complete and visually stunning experience of religious art and architecture. The well-preserved Baroque art and the elegant cloisters are frequently cited as highlights, offering a peaceful retreat and a deep connection to Coimbra's rich religious history.
The Artistic Splendor of Santa Clara-a-Nova
The cloisters are a particular point of admiration, described as a 'super experience' that instills a 'real sense of peace'. These serene spaces, often bathed in natural light, invite contemplation and offer a tranquil escape from the outside world. The combination of architectural beauty and spiritual ambiance makes the cloisters a must-see for any visitor.
Beyond the cloisters, the monastery houses the Gothic tombs of Queen Elizabeth of Portugal and other royal princesses. These tombs are significant historical artifacts, representing the deep connection between the Portuguese monarchy and the religious orders. Their preservation within Santa Clara-a-Nova underscores the monastery's role as a custodian of national heritage.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit