Mosteiro de Santa Clara-a-Velha, Coimbra

Nestled in the heart of Coimbra, Portugal, the Mosteiro de Santa Clara-a-Velha stands as a testament to the city's rich historical tapestry. This Gothic monastery, once home to the Order of Poor Clare nuns, was founded in the 13th century by Queen Isabel of Portugal. Over the centuries, the monastery has witnessed the ebb and flow of time, enduring through periods of prosperity and the ravages of the Mondego River's frequent floods.

The monastery's architecture is a remarkable example of early Gothic style in Portugal, with its elegant arches and sturdy columns capturing the spiritual aspirations of its era. Despite being partially submerged due to the river's flooding over the years, the structure retains a haunting beauty that attracts visitors from around the globe.

In the 17th century, the relentless waters of the Mondego forced the nuns to relocate to a new convent, Santa Clara-a-Nova, leaving behind the original monastery. It wasn't until the 20th century that significant efforts were made to preserve and restore Santa Clara-a-Velha. Today, after extensive renovation works, the monastery offers a window into the past, showcasing the resilience of historical architecture against natural adversities.

The site includes a museum where visitors can delve into the monastery's history and learn about the daily lives of the nuns who once called it home. Artefacts, manuscripts, and architectural remnants provide a rich narrative of the religious and cultural significance of the monastery throughout the ages.