Circa-1300s gothic monastery abandoned due to floods, with tours of the ruins & excavated artifacts.
Site Details
The Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Nova, located in Coimbra, Portugal, is a significant religious site associated with Saint Clare of Assisi, a follower of Saint Francis of Assisi and founder of the Order of Poor Ladies, now known as the Poor Clares. Built in the 17th century to replace the original Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Velha, which was prone to flooding, this monastery houses the tomb of Queen Saint Isabel of Portugal, a revered figure known for her piety and charitable works. Pilgrims visit the site to honor her legacy and seek spiritual inspiration. The monastery’s serene atmosphere, beautiful architecture, and religious artifacts make it a place of prayer and reflection. Its connection to Saint Clare and Queen Saint Isabel underscores its importance as a destination for those seeking to deepen their faith and connect with the history of Christian devotion in Portugal.
Location
Travel Guide for Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Nova
Planning a pilgrimage to Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Nova? The Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Nova, located in Coimbra, Portugal, is a significant religious site associated with Saint Clare of Assisi, a follower of Saint Francis of Assisi and founder of the Order of Poor Ladies, now known as the Poor Clares. Explore how to get to Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Nova, where to stay, and the best attractions.
Nearest Airport to Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Nova
Coimbra Airport (not a major airport, limited flights); Lisbon Airport (LIS) - approx. 200km; Porto Airport (OPO) - approx. 150km
Top Attraction at Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Nova
Sé Velha de Coimbra (Old Cathedral of Coimbra)
Best Time to Visit Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Nova
Spring: Pleasant weather, fewer crowds than summer, blooming flowers
Nearest Station to Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Nova
Coimbra-B train station - approx. 5km
How to Get to Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Nova: Transportation Guide
From Lisbon Airport (LIS): Take the CP train to Coimbra-B station (approx.
Getting There:
From Lisbon Airport (LIS): Take the CP train to Coimbra-B station (approx. 2 hours). From Porto Airport (OPO): Take the CP train to Coimbra-B station (approx. 2 hours). From Coimbra-B station, take a taxi or bus to the monastery.
Nearest Airport: Coimbra Airport (not a major airport, limited flights); Lisbon Airport (LIS) - approx. 200km; Porto Airport (OPO) - approx. 150km
Nearest Train Station: Coimbra-B train station - approx. 5km
Local Transportation:
Bus routes from Coimbra city center are available but may require transfers. Check local bus schedules.
Readily available from Coimbra-B station. Negotiate fare beforehand if possible.
Several car rental agencies available at Coimbra-B station and in Coimbra city center.
Not recommended due to distance from the city center. Walking from Coimbra-B station is not feasible.
Parking Tips:
Limited on-site parking may be available. Street parking in the surrounding area might be possible, but availability is not guaranteed.
Consider using a taxi or public transport to avoid parking difficulties. Check for any parking restrictions or fees.
Location: Portugal
Where to Stay and Eat Near Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Nova
Find places like Hotel Quinta das Lágrimas to stay and eat near Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Nova.
Nearby Lodging
Hotel Quinta das Lágrimas
(hotel)
Distance: 5 km
Hotel Ibis Coimbra
(hotel)
Distance: 7 km
Casa da Índia Guesthouse
(guesthouse)
Distance: 6 km
Nearby Eateries
Zé da Mourisca
Tags: traditional portuguese, seafood
A Brasileira
Tags: cafe, pastries, coffee
Restaurante Solar do Terreiro
Tags: traditional portuguese, vegetarian options
Pilgrim Hostels
Information on pilgrim hostels near Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Nova is limited. Contact the monastery directly or search for 'pousadas' (guesthouses) in Coimbra for potential options.
Best Time to Visit Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Nova for Pilgrimage
Spring: Pleasant weather, fewer crowds than summer, blooming flowers... Learn the best time to visit Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Nova.
Spring
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds than summer, blooming flowers.
Summer
Warm weather, potential for larger crowds, more religious events.
Autumn
Mild temperatures, fewer crowds than summer, beautiful fall foliage.
Winter
Cool temperatures, fewest crowds, quieter atmosphere, potential for rain.
Top Things to Do Near Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Nova
Discover attractions like Sé Velha de Coimbra (Old Cathedral of Coimbra) near Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Nova.
Religious Sites Near Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Nova
Sé Velha de Coimbra (Old Cathedral of Coimbra)
Romanesque cathedral, historically significant in the region.
Sé Velha de Coimbra (Old Cathedral of Coimbra), a notable attraction near Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Nova in .
Mosteiro de Santa Clara-a-Velha (Old Monastery of Santa Clara)
Ruins of a former monastery, showcasing medieval architecture.
Mosteiro de Santa Clara-a-Velha (Old Monastery of Santa Clara), a notable attraction near Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Nova in .
Igreja de São Tiago (Church of St. James)
Gothic church with historical and architectural importance.
Igreja de São Tiago (Church of St. James), a notable attraction near Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Nova in .
Cultural Sites Near Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Nova
Universidade de Coimbra (University of Coimbra)
One of the oldest universities in the world, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Universidade de Coimbra (University of Coimbra), a notable attraction near Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Nova in .
Museu Nacional de Machado de Castro (National Museum Machado de Castro)
Museum housing a significant collection of Portuguese art and artifacts.
Museu Nacional de Machado de Castro (National Museum Machado de Castro), a notable attraction near Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Nova in .
Quinta das Lágrimas (Quinta das Lágrimas)
Historical estate associated with the tragic love story of King Pedro I and Inês de Castro.
Quinta das Lágrimas (Quinta das Lágrimas), a notable attraction near Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Nova in .
Nature Spots Near Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Nova
Mata Nacional de Vale de Canas (Vale de Canas National Forest)
Large park offering walking trails and natural beauty.
Mata Nacional de Vale de Canas (Vale de Canas National Forest), a notable attraction near Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Nova in .
Rio Mondego (Mondego River)
River offering scenic views and recreational activities.
Rio Mondego (Mondego River), a notable attraction near Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Nova in .
Jardim Botânico da Universidade de Coimbra (Botanical Garden of the University of Coimbra)
Extensive botanical garden with a diverse collection of plants.
Jardim Botânico da Universidade de Coimbra (Botanical Garden of the University of Coimbra), a notable attraction near Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Nova in .
Planning to visit Sé Velha de Coimbra (Old Cathedral of Coimbra) at Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Nova?Check for detailed guides.
Visitor Tips for Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Nova
The Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Nova, located in Coimbra, Portugal, is a historic site known for its religious and cultural significance... Read visitor tips for Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Nova.
The Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Nova, located in Coimbra, Portugal, is a historic site known for its religious and cultural significance. Visitors can access the monastery by public transport or car, with parking available nearby. The site is generally open to the public from morning to late afternoon, but it is advisable to check specific hours as they may vary seasonally. Guided tours are often available, offering insights into the monasterys history and architecture. The monastery also hosts religious services, including Mass, which visitors are welcome to attend. Modest attire is recommended out of respect for the sacred nature of the site. Photography is usually permitted, but restrictions may apply in certain areas. The monastery is wheelchair accessible, ensuring inclusivity for all visitors. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, it is recommended to verify details directly with the monastery or through official sources.
