The Church of São Tiago

The Church of São Tiago, in Coimbra

The Church of São Tiago is a gem of Romanesque art, on the Praça do Comércio of Coimbra. The Coimbra audio-guided tour stops here, with respect, to evoke this twelfth-century sanctuary, once a stage of the pilgrims on their way to Santiago de Compostela.

The Romanesque gem of the pilgrims of Compostela

On the Praça do Comércio, you only need a quick glance to realise that the Church of São Tiago is the historic reference of the surroundings. Built in the twelfth century, just like the Sé Velha, the former cathedral of Coimbra, this religious building allowed the pilgrims of the past to gather during their long road, towards Santiago de Compostela. Of relatively modest dimensions, but full of robustness, the Church of São Tiago is a true gem of Romanesque art. Outside as inside, modesty prevails, with the exception of the fine work of the sculpted columns and capitals of the entrance portal, which testify to the know-how of the medieval builders. Small in size but great by its history and its authenticity, the Church of São Tiago is discovered with respect, in the calm of its sanctuary, in the heart of the life of the Baixa.

What to see

You admire, with respect, the gem of twelfth-century Romanesque art on the Praça do Comércio, built like the Sé Velha to welcome the pilgrims on their way to Compostela, of modest but robust dimensions, where sobriety prevails, with the exception of the fine sculpted columns and capitals of the portal. The Church of São Tiago is a Romanesque gem of Coimbra. It is a stop to be discovered with respect.

Practical information

The Church of São Tiago lies on the Praça do Comércio, in the Baixa of Coimbra, reachable on foot. A place of worship, it can be visited with respect; access and hours follow their own conditions, which vary. It is best to check them before coming and to respect the sacred character of the place.

What was the role of the Church of São Tiago in Coimbra?

Built in the twelfth century, like the Sé Velha, it allowed the pilgrims to gather on their way to Santiago de Compostela; this gem of Romanesque art, modest but robust, stands out by the sculpted columns and capitals of its portal.

Where is the Church of São Tiago of Coimbra?

On the Praça do Comércio, in the Baixa of Coimbra, in Portugal.