Monastery of Serra do Pilar
Largo de Avis - Santa Marinha, Vila Nova de Gaia, Porto 4430-329
Phone: +351 223 795 385
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This 17th century former Augustinian monastery is laid out in a circular form unique to Portugal. The round church with its hemispherical dome is a replica of the Church of Santa Maria Redonda in Rome. It took 72 years to complete due to shortage of funds and the Spanish invasion, which also accounts for it being named after a Spanish saint. The barrel vaulting to the circular cloisters is borne on 36 Ionic columns. From the front of the church there are wonderful views over the river and the city.
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