Monastery of Saint Clare in Vila do Conde
The Monastery of Saint Clare, located in Vila do Conde, is one of Portugal’s most imposing religious monuments. It was founded in 1318 on the initiative of Afonso Sanches, bastard son of King Dinis, and his wife, Teresa Martins.
Initially inhabited by Poor Clare nuns, the monastery played an important role in local spirituality and history. It became a spiritual and social centre of great importance, attracting noblewomen who wanted to dedicate themselves to the monastic life.
Over the centuries, the Monastery of Santa Clara underwent various changes and adaptations. During the 15th century, the monastery was enlarged and renovated, gaining an even more important role in the religious life of Vila do Conde and the northern region of Portugal. However, due to gradual deterioration, the convent building was on the verge of ruin and in 1777 it was partially rebuilt. Due to financial difficulties, the French invasions and the liberal war, the project was never fully completed.
The Monastery Church is one of the architectural jewels of the Gothic period. It has undergone many interventions that have added elements of the Manueline, Baroque and Rococo styles. It contains the tombs of the founders (D. Afonso Sanches and his wife D. Teresa Martins), of D. Brites Pereira de Alvim, daughter of the Holy Constable D. Nuno Álvares Pereira, and of the Count of Cantanhede and his wife, D. Fernando de Meneses and D. Brites de Andrade respectively.
With the extinction of the religious orders in 1834, the monastery was deactivated after the death of the last professed nun in May 1893, and its properties passed to the state. For some time, the building was used for civil purposes, having housed, among other functions, a college and a hospital.
The Church of the Convent of Santa Clara and the Tombs of the Founders has been a national monument since 1910.
The Lince Santa Clara Hotel combines the essence of the past with modern sophistication
The building has been restored and is now home to The Lince Santa Clara Historic Hotel & SPA. This luxurious 5-star hotel, which opened in 2024, preserves the essence of the past and combines it with the comfort and sophistication of modern hospitality. Recognised for its care in integrating heritage and sustainability with the quality of its services, The Lince Hotels group has transformed this space into a unique refuge for those who want an authentic experience, surrounded by history.
The cloister and gardens have also been preserved, providing spaces for leisure and contemplation, where guests can stroll and feel the calm and beauty that have always characterised this place.
