The Church of São Tiago

A quick glance around Praça do Comércio is all it takes to spot the historic heart of this square, the Church of São Tiago. Built in the 12th century, around the same time as Coimbra’s Sé Velha, it was once a place of prayer and rest for pilgrims on their way to Santiago de Compostela. Though modest in size, the Church of São Tiago stands strong and proud. A beautiful example of Romanesque architecture, where simplicity is everything, except for the finely carved columns and capitals framing the entrance. Small but full of meaning, this national monument is well worth a few minutes of your time as you explore Coimbra.