The Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Velha

While many abbeys were abandoned after the decline of their respective religious orders, the Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Velha is still standing. According to historical records, it was built in 1283 at the request of Dona Mor Dias, a noblewoman and abbess of an independent convent. After her death, the site fell into neglect, until it was revived by Queen Isabel of Aragon. Known as the “Holy Queen,” she poured all her energy into restoring the monastery, with the blessing of the Pope. She was so committed to its revival that, after the death of her husband King Dinis, she moved into a nearby palace to personally oversee the work. In 1336, she was laid to rest within these very walls, just as she had wished. Located on the left bank of the Rio Mondego, the monastery was repeatedly hit by flooding, which led to constant rebuilding and repairs. Over time, the rising water proved too much for the Poor Clare nuns, who relocated uphill to the newly built Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Nova. The original monastery, built in the Gothic style, features stone vaults instead of the typical wooden beams found in similar structures. After centuries of damage, a major renovation project began in 1990. Over the years, thick vegetation was cleared away, revealing the layout of the old cloister and church foundations below. Surrounded by a lovely garden and complemented by an interpretation centre since 2009, the Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Velha remains a feast for the eyes and a treasure trove of history.