The monastery was constructed in the 17th century to escape the chronic flooding of the river-level Santa Clara-a-Velha monastery.
It contains the 17th-century silver and crystal sarcophagus of Queen Isabel, which is elevated for veneration.
The high altar is notable for its intricate Baroque woodcarvings gilded with gold leaf.
The site includes a long-standing cloister built in the Mannerist style.
The monastery is formally known as the Convento da Rainha Santa Isabel.
The church houses a significant collection of religious paintings and liturgical vestments.
The building was designed to serve both as a convent for the Poor Clares and a royal pantheon.
It is the starting point for major religious processions honoring the Queen Saint Isabel.
The Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Nova, built in the 17th century to replace the flood-prone Santa Clara-a-Velha, houses the silver tomb of Queen Isabel of Portugal. It stands on the Monte da Esperança in Coimbra and serves as a major site for the Confraternity of Queen Saint Isabel. The site features a notable cloister designed by João Turriano and a church interior decorated with extensive gilded woodcarvings and paintings. It remains an active religious site while functioning as a museum housing ecclesiastical artifacts. The monastery's elevated position provides panoramic views over the city of Coimbra and the Mondego River. Pilgrims visit the site primarily to venerate the remains of the patron saint of Coimbra.
From the terrace outside the main entrance, which offers the widest view of Coimbra's historic center.
Walk through the upper cloister to see the architectural transition between Mannerism and Baroque.
Visit the choir area to view the intricate wood choir stalls and the museum exhibits.
Check the local religious calendar, as the site can become very busy during festivals dedicated to Queen Isabel.
Do not mistake this for the Santa Clara-a-Velha monastery ruins located at the bottom of the hill near the river.
The site occasionally closes parts of the church for private religious services or official ecclesiastical events.
Maintain a quiet tone as this is a functional religious site; cover shoulders and knees when entering the church area.
