Category: Religious Architecture > Church
District: Coimbra > Coimbra > Coimbra > Alta
Situated in the historic area of Alta de Coimbra, the Chapel of St. Michael is part of the imposing ensemble of the Royal Palace of Schools (Paço das Escolas), the heart of the University of Coimbra. Its position in this central nucleus confers particular relevance upon it, integrating it into UNESCO World Heritage and recognizing it as a National Monument, bearing witness to centuries of history and culture.
The Chapel of St. Michael stands upon the vestiges of a private oratory of the former Royal Palace, whose history probably dates back to the 12th century. The structure contemplated today is the result of a project initiated in the 16th century, under the patronage of King Manuel I, who left his mark on the imposing Manueline-style portal. This portal, flanked by pillars with maritime symbolism, displays in the center the Portuguese royal shield, the Cross of Christ, and the armillary sphere. Throughout the 17th and 18th centuries, the chapel underwent remodelling that enriched its interior, reflecting a harmonious fusion of styles developed under the aegis of the University of Coimbra, following its acquisition of the former royal palace.
Upon crossing the threshold of the Chapel of St. Michael, visitors are enveloped by an atmosphere of sumptuous harmony. The current decoration, developed mostly in the 17th and 18th centuries, reveals a profusion of religious and artistic motifs. At the main altar, an 18th-century altarpiece in gilded carved wood dominates, notable for its Mannerist paintings depicting episodes from the life of Christ, with particular emphasis on the figure of Archangel St. Michael. Two side altars complement the space: one dedicated to Our Lady of Light, revered by the academic community, and another to Saint Catherine. The wall covering is equally stunning, with blue and white patterned tiles in the chancel, applied in 1613, and "carpet-type" tiles in the nave, originating from Lisbon and placed in the mid-17th century. The ceilings, both in the main altar and the nave, display intricate motifs, including the insignia of the University of Coimbra and the royal coat of arms, surrounded by the three archangels.
One of the most notable elements of the interior is the magnificent Baroque organ, a sonic work of art dating from 1737. With over two thousand pipes, this instrument is adorned with a richly carved wooden case in gilded wood and oriental-inspired details, known as chinoiserie. Interestingly, it was originally commissioned by King John V for a larger church, which explains its impactful and almost disproportionate presence in this more intimate space. Its beauty is not merely aesthetic, as the organ remains in perfect working order, still used today in celebrations and concerts, where its sound majestically fills the chapel.
Dominating the space above the choir, once reserved for the academic musical group, is the royal tribune. This location allowed the royal family to attend ceremonies with a unique perspective on the chapel, highlighting their privileged status. The pulpit in the chapel is also a prominent element, known for having been the stage for historical sermons, such as the one delivered by Father António Vieira in the 17th century.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 40.2074163,-8.426452
Coordinates DMS: 40°12'26.7"N 08°25'35.2"W
Weather Coimbra
On-duty Pharmacy Coimbra
