Official Coimbra Tourism website

Visitors

Santa Clara: a living heritage on the banks of the Mondego

The Santa Clara area of Coimbra is a true treasure trove of history and culture, where past and present meet.

Dominated by the splendor of the Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Velha, whose origins date back to the 13th century, this area preserves the memory of Queen Saint Isabel. The monastery, now a museum, is a testament to her devotion and to the inclement weather of the Mondego, which flooded the area so many times.

Further up the hill, the Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Nova, built in the 17th century, houses the tomb of the Holy Queen, patron saint of the city, venerated both for her kindness and for the miracles attributed to her.

The legend of Inês de Castro, queen crowned after her death, finds an echo in the romantic Quinta das Lágrimas, a place where history and nature merge. This place, which is said to have been the scene of the tragic love between D. Pedro and Inês, is today one of the most iconic in Coimbra, with its enchanting gardens and the Fonte das Lágrimas, shrouded in myth and poetry.

"This balance, combined with the richness of its gastronomic offering and the presence of unique establishments, makes the area one of the most attractive neighborhoods in the city."

Great auditorium of the Convent of San Francisco

Portugal dos Pequenitos(little children's Portugal)

For those looking for more contemporary experiences, the Convento São Francisco , transformed into a modern cultural center, offers a diverse program, from concerts to exhibitions, while preserving the architectural and spiritual heritage of the old convent.

Santa Clara is also a space for all ages, with the Portugal dos Pequenitos(little children's Portugal) Delighting children and adults for decades. This theme park, designed by doctor and philanthropist Bissaya Barreto, is a celebration of Portuguese culture and heritage, with miniature replicas of monuments and typical houses from all over the country.

Furthermore, the area is a privileged spot to admire the best views of Coimbra, with the Peter and Agnes Bridge connecting the banks of the Mondego and providing a unique setting for unforgettable photographs.

The gastronomic and leisure options in Santa Clara are equally diverse. Local restaurants offer a delicious variety of traditional Portuguese cuisine, while ice cream and pastry shops invite you to take a sweet break after a day of cultural visits.

The area combines the best of an authentic experience, with the tranquility of its green spaces and the entertainment provided by tourists and residents, making it a must-see for anyone wishing to explore the “other side of the river”.