Monastery of Serra do Pilar

The Monastery of Serra do Pilar is a Renaissance complex featuring a circular church and cloister positioned on a hilltop overlooking the Douro River. From this elevated location, the structure offers expansive views toward Porto and the surrounding landscape.

Construction of this Augustinian monastery began in 1538 under King João III and spanned multiple decades due to financial and political obstacles. The project eventually reached completion after a lengthy building process.

The monastery houses gilded altars with Solomonic columns and wooden religious figures from the 18th century that line the interior. Walking through the circular church, visitors notice the careful craftsmanship in every corner.

The monastery is open Tuesday through Sunday with seasonal variations in hours, shorter in winter and longer in summer. Visitors should be prepared for the hillside setting with stairs and walking paths throughout the grounds.

The church and cloister share identical circular diameters, an architectural choice that stands apart among European religious buildings. This symmetry creates an unexpected geometric balance that flows throughout the entire structure.

Location: Santa Marinha e São Pedro da Afurada

Architectural style: Renaissance

Operator: Direção Regional de Cultura do Norte

Part of: Historic Centre of Porto

Address: Largo de Aviz

Opening Hours: November-March Tuesday-Sunday 10:00-17:30; April-October Tuesday-Sunday 10:00-18:30; Holidays off

Phone: +351220142425

Website: https://culturanorte.gov.pt/patrimonio/mosteiro-da-serra-do-pilar

GPS coordinates: 41.13833,-8.60750

Latest update: December 11, 2025 00:08