Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Velha

The Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Velha, or Mosteiro de Santa Clara-a-Velha as it is known in Portuguese, is a fascinating historical site located on the left bank of the Mondego River in Coimbra, Portugal. This Gothic monastery, with its intriguing history and architectural beauty, offers a unique glimpse into the past and is a must-visit for history enthusiasts and casual tourists alike.

The History of the Monastery

The origins of the Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Velha date back to the late 13th century, a period marked by the gradual influence and acceptance of the Order of Friars Minor in the Portuguese court and society. It was originally founded by Dona Mor Dias, a noblewoman of Coimbra, who was inspired by the lifestyle proposed by Saint Clare. Despite facing opposition from the Monastery of Santa Cruz, Dona Mor Dias persisted and laid the first stone of the monastery in 1286.

However, the monastery faced numerous challenges, including disputes with the Monastery of Santa Cruz and the death of its founder in 1302. The conflict continued until 1311, when the monastery was temporarily dissolved. It wasn't until Queen Isabel of Aragon, also known as Saint Isabel of Portugal, took an interest in the monastery that its fortunes began to change. She obtained permission from Pope Clement V in 1314 to refound the monastery and dedicated much of her time and resources to its development.

The Architectural Marvel

The construction of the new monastery began in 1316 under the direction of royal architect Domingos Domingues, who was later succeeded by Estevão Domingues. The new church was consecrated in 1330 and is a prime example of Gothic architecture in Portugal. The church features a unique design with three naves of equal height, a rare feature at the time. The central nave is covered with a barrel vault, while the side naves are adorned with ribbed vaults, showcasing the architectural prowess of the time.

The monastery also includes a cloister, which was supplied with water from the Quinta do Pombal (now known as Quinta das Lágrimas). The cloister, along with other parts of the monastery, was frequently flooded by the nearby Mondego River, leading to significant challenges for the nuns who resided there. Despite these difficulties, the monastery remained a significant religious site until the 17th century.

The Abandonment and Rediscovery

Due to constant flooding and deteriorating living conditions, the nuns eventually moved to a new building on Monte da Esperança, known as the Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Nova, in 1677. The abandoned monastery, now referred to as Santa Clara-a-Velha, fell into disrepair and was used for agricultural purposes. The upper part of the convent served as a residence, barn, and stables, while the lower parts remained submerged and forgotten.

In the early 20th century, efforts to restore the monastery began, but it wasn't until the 1990s that a comprehensive restoration project was undertaken. Led by archaeologist Artur Côrte-Real, this project aimed to recover and preserve the monastery's historical significance. The archaeological campaign, which took place between 1995 and 2000, unearthed significant artifacts and revealed the lower parts of the church and cloister.

The Interpretive Center

In 2004, a project was launched to further enhance the site, leading to the construction of an interpretive center. Completed in 2008 and opened to the public in 2009, the center serves as a museum and educational facility, showcasing the history and artifacts of the monastery. Visitors can explore the daily lives of the nuns who once lived there through exhibits of porcelain, rosaries, rings, and other objects.

The interpretive center also includes an auditorium, exhibition rooms, a shop, and a café, making it a comprehensive visitor experience. The restoration and preservation efforts have earned the Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Velha recognition, including the prestigious Europa Nostra Award in 2010.

Challenges and Resilience

Despite the extensive restoration efforts, the monastery has faced continued challenges from flooding. In January and February 2016, the Mondego River once again inundated the site, causing significant damage to the interpretive center and its equipment. However, the resilience of the site and the dedication to its preservation have ensured that it remains a valuable historical and cultural landmark.

In 2020, further recovery efforts were initiated, and the monastery remained closed until July 2023. Today, the Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Velha stands as a testament to the rich history and architectural heritage of Coimbra. Its walls echo the stories of the past, offering visitors a unique opportunity to step back in time and explore the legacy of this remarkable site.