Santa Cruz Church

The Santa Cruz Church in Coimbra is one of the most fascinating places I’ve visited in Portugal. From the moment you enter, the atmosphere feels rich with history and devotion. The main altar is absolutely magnificent — a masterpiece of ornate carvings and golden details that immediately draw your eyes upward. The relicários (reliquaries) are particularly impressive, showcasing sacred treasures with exquisite craftsmanship that speaks to centuries of faith and artistry. Each one seems to tell its own silent story. Finally, the tombs of Portugal’s first king, located inside the church, add a deeply historical and emotional layer to the visit. Standing before them, you can almost feel the weight of Portugal’s beginnings and the enduring legacy of Coimbra’s royal past. Overall, Santa Cruz Church is not just a beautiful monument — it’s a journey through history, art, and architecture all in one unforgettable place.

It is a National Monument in Coimbra, Portugal, because the first two kings of Portugal are buried here. Nothing remains of the early Romanesque monastery. Built around 1131. Most of it dates from a major restoration in the 1500s, which followed the Portuguese Gothic style of the time. Interior is decorated with baroque tile panels. The monastery was the reason the university was established in Coimbra, as it was Portugal’s famous medieval school. Wear comfy shoes, take water, wear hat, sunscreen. Level terrain, lots of easy walking to get here

Amazingly historic, like walking back in time when walking through the doors. Intricate details that just couldn't be replicated these days. So quiet and peaceful inside. Superb stone vaulted ceiling.

Founded in 1131 by Augustinian canons, the church is the burial site of Portugal’s first king, Afonso Henriques (D. Afonso Henriques), and his son, Sancho I (D. Sancho I). The royal tombs were sculpted by Nicolau Chanterene. Although originally built in the Romanesque style, little of that design remains. In the 16th century, the church was extensively rebuilt in the Manueline style under the direction of Diogo de Boitaca and Marcos Pires.

Pros: - Free entry during mass (as it should be), If you attend mass, you can stay afterwards to admire the Portuguese tiles which depict scenes of evangelisation. Cons/be aware of: - Church charges for entry outside of mass times (but as noted above, you can enter freely during mass). - Some tourists entered during mass and inconsiderately took lots of photos, which was distracting for those attending the mass. - During the Sunday 11.30am mass I attended, the Coimbrass (Coimbra brass band) was playing loudly right outside the church and it was almost impossible to hear some of the church music and readings. The local council should put restrictions on where & when the brass band plays as I don’t think this was within the church ministry’s control.

Beautiful and historical. Very lovely place to visit.

Beautiful church worth visiting. Interesting is that the outer door facade structure in the front was added from a piece of another church!

Santa Cruz Church in Coimbra is a stunning blend of history and art. The intricate Manueline façade draws you in, but inside, the royal tombs and ornate chapels take your breath away. Stepping here feels like walking through centuries of Portuguese heritage — truly unforgettable.

This place is UNESCO heritage site because it has the first and second Portugal kings burial in this church. This church was built in 11th century. The interior may not be the top notch. But the significant of the history is huge in this church. Not only the tomb of the king, it also has the Martyrs relic of the priest at Morocco. This church requires 1 hour minimum to visit. There are several chamber you can visit. The entrance to the chamber is on the right of the church which entrance fees is three euro per person. It is worth the visit. You got to see what behind the alter with two kings tomb. The choir stall above the church, the courtyard, relic of past pop and bishop, treasure room and more. Don't stop at the sanctuary only. Go to their ticket on the right alter room where you find the true entrance to the historic area.