Saint Francis Convent

Category: Religious Architecture > Convent

District: Coimbra > Coimbra > Coimbra > Santa Clara

Location

The São Francisco Convent is located in Coimbra, in the Santa Clara area. Its strategic position, at the foot of a hill that slopes down to the left bank of the Mondego River, gives it a tranquil and picturesque setting within the city's urban landscape.

A Centenary History

The origin of the São Francisco Convent dates back to the early 17th century, more precisely to the year 1602, when it was conceived to house Franciscan monks. Its construction followed the Mannerist style, characteristic of the period in Coimbra. After the extinction of religious orders, the building went through various phases, even serving as facilities for a wool factory until the end of the 20th century. This rich trajectory is an integral part of its legacy.

Architecture and Redevelopment

In 1995, the São Francisco Convent was acquired by the municipality of Coimbra, initiating a redevelopment process that transformed it. The restoration and adaptation project, completed in 2016, took care to preserve the original architecture of the convent, particularly its modest but detailed facade, while introducing a contemporary dynamism. Currently, the building is a notable example of how history and modernity can coexist, resulting in a functional and aesthetically relevant space. Since 2014, the São Francisco Convent has been classified as a Monument of Public Interest.

Cultural and Events Centre

The São Francisco Convent reopened its doors in 2016 as a multifunctional space dedicated to culture and knowledge. Although it has maintained its historical essence, the convent has been adapted to host a wide range of artistic and cultural events. Its interior offers several rooms and a large auditorium, where theater performances, concerts, and exhibitions are held, consolidating it as a dynamic hub for Coimbra's cultural life.

License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt