Santa Clara Church

The Church of Santa Clara

The Porto audio-guided tour lets you discover, in a discreet lane, the Church of Santa Clara, one of the most precious treasures of the city, famous for its interior gilding.

A jewel of gilded woodwork

Unlike many churches of Porto, Santa Clara reveals its beauty much more by its interior than by its exterior appearance. Once its stone portal with Gothic influences is crossed, the magic operates: built in the fifteenth century, it is above all known for its magnificent altar with gilded sculptures, dating from the first half of the eighteenth century. This masterpiece of woodwork, extremely detailed, is representative of the know-how of the north of Portugal, where the art of gilded woodcarving reached heights. The church has been listed as a historic monument since 1910. Note that photographs are not allowed inside, with respect for the place.

What there is to see

The Church of Santa Clara invites contemplation before its dazzling altar with gilded sculptures, one of the finest examples of gilded woodcarving in Portugal. Behind a discreet façade hides an interior of exceptional richness. It is a hidden treasure of Porto, to be discovered with respect, away from the bustle of the great attractions.

Practical information

The Church of Santa Clara is in a lane of the old town of Porto, near the Fernandina wall. A place of worship, it can be visited with respect for the services, according to hours to be checked on site; photos are not allowed inside.

What makes the value of the Church of Santa Clara?

Its magnificent altar with gilded sculptures of the eighteenth century, a masterpiece of the gilded woodcarving of the north of Portugal.

From when does the Church of Santa Clara date?

It was built in the fifteenth century; its gilded altar dates from the first half of the eighteenth century.