Coimbra, PT

St James Church, Coimbra

The St James Church (Igreja de São Tiago) is a Romanesque church that constitutes the main architectural exponent of this period in the city of Coimbra.

About this building

There is documentary evidence of the existence of a church on this site in 957. However, the current temple was rebuilt in the last decades of the 1100's and consecrated in 1206 It was classified as a National Monument in 1910.

The church has three naves with three chapels. It underwent a major transformation in the 16th century, but was restored to its original appearance during the 20th century. Part of the south apse and the main chapel were lost in the 19th century as a result of the widening of the Visconde da Luz street.

Key Features

  • Architecture
  • Monuments
  • Interior features
  • Links to national heritage
  • Famous people or stories

Visitors information

  • On street parking at the building
  • Café within 500m

Other nearby buildings

Wikimedia Commons/Concierge.2C

Old cathedral of Coimbra

The old cathedral of Coimbra was built between 1146 and 1218 when Coimbra was the capital of the country. It is one of the most important Romanesque buildings in Portugal, as it has remained practically intact since its construction period. Additions of different styles were made later in the 16th century but did not alter its Romanesque essence. In 1772, after the expulsion of the Jesuits, the title of cathedral was transferred to the Jesuit church, now the New Cathedral of Coimbra.

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