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Monastery · Vila do Conde, Porto
Mosteiro de Santa Clara
Monastery of the Poor Clares founded in 1318 on the hilltop of Vila do Conde, with a Gothic church housing the founders' tombs and a large 18th‑century building facing the Ave River.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Mosteiro de Santa Clara
The monastery of Santa Clara occupies the top of the hill above the Ave River and is the most visible building from afar in Vila do Conde. It was founded in 1318 by D. Afonso Sanches, son of King D. Dinis, and his wife D. Teresa Martins, as a convent for Poor Clare nuns. The convent remained in operation until the 19th century, when religious orders were dissolved in Portugal.
The church, in Gothic style, is the oldest surviving part. Inside are carved stone tombs: those of the founders, that of D. Beatriz, daughter of the constable Nuno Álvares Pereira, and the tombs of the Counts of Cantanhede. The dark stone ensemble contrasts with the gilded woodwork of the altars added in later centuries.
The large rectangular building beside it, known as the new dormitories, was rebuilt in the 18th century and for a long time served as a reformatory. Of the old cloister only arches and a fountain remain; the fountain was supplied with water brought by the aqueduct of Santa Clara, whose arches reach up to the monastery.
From the square in front you have a view of the Ave River, the bridge and the old town.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 30 to 45 minutes for the church and the square.
Best time
In the morning or early afternoon, when the church is usually open. Hours vary with the season; check before you go.
How to get there
It is located at Largo D. Afonso Sanches, at the top of the center, about a 10‑minute walk from the metro station and the igreja matriz.
Tip
After the church, walk a few meters along the arches of the aqueduct, which begin beside the monastery.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Mosteiro de Santa Clara
Who founded the mosteiro de Santa Clara?
D. Afonso Sanches, son of King D. Dinis, and his wife D. Teresa Martins, in 1318.
What to see inside the igreja de Santa Clara?
The Gothic tombs of the founders, the tomb of D. Beatriz (daughter of Nuno Álvares Pereira), and those of the Counts of Cantanhede.
Does the monastery still have nuns?
No. The convent was dissolved in the 19th century and the building had other uses afterwards. The church is the part that can be visited.