Tucked away within a courtyard in the Batalha district this 15th-century church is a hidden gem. It was built in 1457 as part of a monastery complex to re-house the nuns of the Order of Saint Clare who had outgrown their previous loggings. This church is famed for its magnificently opulent interior which every possible space is covered with carved and gilded woodwork. Today it's considered one of the finest examples of Portuguese Baroque and Rococo architecture.
Church of Santa Clara"
The exterior maintains much of its original gothic appearance the exception is the main portal which saw a re-modelling around 1700 to suit a more Baroque manner. The façade portrays an austere semblance in keeping with monastic doctrine however the interior in grand contrast is opulently decorated and somewhat visually overwhelming.
During the 17th century, the interior experienced a series of transformations. Nearly every square inch is covered with carved and gilded woodwork depicting angels, saints, cherubs, and patterned designs in an architectural mélange of Rococo and Baroque, one of the most exceptional examples in Portugal. The clerestory windows permit daylight to flood in emphasising the glint on the gilded carvings. Following the dissolution of the religious orders in Portugal in 1834, the state took possession of the adjoining monastery, the church of Santa Clara remained open to the public.
Monday, Wednesday: 08h00 - 12h00/13h00 - 18h00, Tuesday, Thusday: 09h00 - 18h00, Friday: 09h00 - 17h30, Saturday: 09h00 - 16h00, Sunday: 09h00 - 13h30
FREE
Bus: 200, 201, 207, 208, 300, 301, 302, 303, 304, 305, 501, 507, 601, 602, 703, 801, ZH, 12M and 13M | Timetable | STCP Website |
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Metro: São Bento (Line D) | Timetable Metro do Porto Website |
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22 Old Tram: Carmo - Batalha | Timetable STCP Website |
Contact Details
Largo Primeiro de Dezembro, 4000-404 Porto, Portugal. |
41° 08' 33.3" N | 08° 36' 32.6"W
+351 222 005 338
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