Museu de Aveiro Santa Joana
A 15th-century convent housing stunning Baroque art, sacred treasures, and the tomb of Princess Saint Joana.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Free admission!
Museu de Aveiro Santa Joana
Best Time
Free admission!

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 15th-century convent housing stunning Baroque art, sacred treasures, and the tomb of Princess Saint Joana.
"A true cultural gem with breathtaking art and an inspiring story, especially affordable on free admission days."
🎟️ Combined Ticket Value
Get more for your money with a combined ticket for the museum and Igreja das Carmelitas.
🚶♀️ Explore the Convent
Wander through the former Dominican convent, reflecting on the lives of the nuns.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Tomb of Princess Saint Joana
Main Chapel
Marvel at the exquisite marble craftsmanship of the tomb, a masterpiece by João Antunes, dedicated to Princess Saint Joana.
Baroque Church of Jesus
Within the Museum
Step into one of Portugal's most beautiful and ornate churches, a 15th-century gem within the former convent.
Sacred Art Collections
Various Galleries
Explore a rich collection of religious artifacts and sacred art, reflecting centuries of devotion and artistic expression.

Intricate Azulejo Tilework
Throughout the Museum
Admire the breathtaking detail of traditional Portuguese azulejo tiles adorning the walls and floors, showcasing stunning artistry.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Combine Your Visit
Free Admission Days
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Combined Ticket Value
Get more for your money with a combined ticket for the museum and Igreja das Carmelitas.
🚶♀️ Explore the Convent
Wander through the former Dominican convent, reflecting on the lives of the nuns.
🎧 Use the Audioguide
Enhance your visit with an audioguide for deeper insights into the exhibits.
🅿️ Parking Patience
Parking can be tricky in this popular area; allow extra time to find a spot.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Combined Ticket Value
Get more for your money with a combined ticket for the museum and Igreja das Carmelitas.
🚶♀️ Explore the Convent
Wander through the former Dominican convent, reflecting on the lives of the nuns.
🎧 Use the Audioguide
Enhance your visit with an audioguide for deeper insights into the exhibits.
🅿️ Parking Patience
Parking can be tricky in this popular area; allow extra time to find a spot.
✨ Free First Sundays
Plan your visit for the first Sunday of the month for free entry!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Museu de Aveiro Santa Joana as a cultural gem, highlighting its stunning Baroque chapels, sacred art, and the inspiring story of Princess Saint Joana. The affordability, especially the free first Sunday of the month, and the friendly, knowledgeable staff are frequently mentioned positives. Some note that parking can be a minor challenge in the popular area.
"The Aveiro Museum, set in the former Convent of Jesus, is a true cultural gem. Its stunning Baroque chapels and sacred art collections are breathtaking, and learning about Princess Saint Joana is inspiring. Even better, admission is free on the first Sunday of each month — a perfect chance to explore!"
Esrf G
"Originally founded in 1461 as the Convent of Jesus (Convento de Jesus), this building was later transformed in the 16th to 18th centuries with Baroque-style renovations. Since 1911, it has served as a museum. Today, it is an important cultural site where visitors can admire Baroque art, the tomb of Princess Saint Joana, intricate azulejo tilework, and architectural details of historical significance. It is particularly meaningful for those interested in art, architecture, and religious history. A highlight is the tomb of Santa Joana, designed by João Antunes, which showcases masterful marble craftsmanship.
※ Included in Aveiro Museum Pass."
Seokjin Ham
"It is a surprising voluminous museum of princess Santa Joana. The rich collection of religious artifacts is a feast to the faithful. Even though I don't subscribe to Catholic teaching, the life of Princess Santa Joana must have been a story of devotion that moved and loved by many."
Roger Mak
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is centrally located in Aveiro, making it easily accessible on foot from many parts of the city. If driving, be aware that parking can be challenging in this popular area, so allow extra time to find a spot.
Aveiro has a good public transport network, and buses frequently stop near the city center, which is a short walk from the museum. Check local bus routes for the most convenient options.
Yes, the Museu de Aveiro Santa Joana is a pleasant walk from the Aveiro train station, typically taking around 15-20 minutes. It's a good way to see more of the city.
While the historic nature of the building may present some challenges, many areas of the museum are accessible. It's advisable to contact the museum directly for specific accessibility information.
If you're already exploring Aveiro, walking is often the most enjoyable way to reach the museum, allowing you to soak in the city's atmosphere.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Standard admission for adults is €7.00, with reduced rates for seniors (€3.50) and young people aged 6-24 (€1.75). Children under 5 enter for free.
Yes, admission is free on the first Sunday of each month. This is a great opportunity to visit if you're on a budget.
While online booking options may vary, you can typically purchase tickets at the museum's entrance. A combined ticket with the Igreja das Carmelitas is also available.
Opening hours can vary seasonally and for special events. It's recommended to check the official museum website or social media for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
Yes, the museum is often included in an 'Aveiro Museum Pass,' which can offer good value if you plan to visit multiple cultural sites in Aveiro.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Key highlights include the tomb of Princess Saint Joana, the ornate Baroque Church of Jesus, extensive sacred art collections, and beautiful azulejo tilework.
Most visitors spend around 1.5 to 2 hours exploring the museum to fully appreciate its collections and historical significance.
The museum itself does not typically have a cafe or restaurant. However, there are numerous dining options available in the surrounding area of Aveiro.
Photography is generally permitted for personal use, but flash photography is usually prohibited to protect the artifacts. Always check for specific signage within the museum.
The museum is housed in the former Convent of Jesus, founded in 1458, which was home to Princess Saint Joana. It reflects centuries of Dominican life and architectural evolution.
📸 📸 Photography
The Baroque Church of Jesus, with its ornate details, and the intricately tiled cloisters are particularly photogenic. Don't miss the stunning azulejo panels.
Yes, photography for personal use is generally allowed, but it's important to avoid using flash to preserve the delicate artworks and artifacts.
Visitors often capture architectural details, religious art, and the serene atmosphere of the former convent. The azulejo tilework is a frequent subject.
The main restriction is usually on flash photography. Some specific exhibits might also have temporary photography bans, so always look for posted signs.
Tripods are typically not allowed in museums to avoid obstructing other visitors and to prevent accidental damage. It's best to rely on handheld shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the museum focuses on religious art, the sheer beauty of the architecture and the stories of historical figures can be captivating. It's a good opportunity to introduce children to Portuguese history and art in a less overwhelming setting than larger, more crowded museums.
⛪ Religious & History Enthusiasts
Explore the stunning Baroque church, admire the masterful tomb of Saint Joana, and delve into the rich sacred art collections. The historical context of the former convent adds another layer of depth to the experience.
💰 Budget Travelers
This offers a significant cultural experience without a high cost, allowing you to appreciate intricate art, historical architecture, and a compelling story of faith.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of Princess Saint Joana
Her tomb, a masterpiece of Baroque art by João Antunes, is a central attraction. It's a testament to her revered status and the artistic achievements of the era. Visitors often find her story inspiring, highlighting a different path of influence beyond political power.
Exploring the museum offers a unique glimpse into the life of a Portuguese princess who became a saint, providing a rich historical and spiritual narrative that resonates with many visitors interested in religious history and Portuguese royalty.
Architectural Marvels and Artistic Treasures
The museum boasts an impressive collection of sacred art, including paintings, sculptures, and religious vestments. The Baroque Church of Jesus, located within the museum complex, is particularly renowned for its opulent decoration and is considered one of the most beautiful churches in Portugal.
A standout feature is the extensive use of azulejo tiles, which adorn many of the walls and floors with intricate patterns and narrative scenes. These tiles are a quintessential element of Portuguese art and architecture, and the museum showcases them in spectacular fashion. The combination of these elements makes the Museu de Aveiro Santa Joana a visual feast.
Visiting with a Combined Ticket
This combined ticket typically includes an informative kit and an audioguide, which significantly enhances the visitor experience. The audioguide offers detailed explanations of the art, history, and religious significance of the exhibits, allowing you to explore at your own pace while gaining deeper insights.
This approach is particularly recommended for those interested in understanding the broader religious and artistic heritage of Aveiro. It streamlines the visit, ensuring you don't miss out on key attractions and providing a richer, more educational experience.
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