Mosteiro de São Bento da Vitória is a Benedictine monastery at R. de São Bento da Vitória 45 in Porto. A guided visit brings its architecture and interior decorations into focus, with guides explaining the monastery’s history. The building also hosts Fado concerts, where the hall’s acoustics and intimate setting suit the music. Look for the memorial to Porto’s Portuguese synagogue and Jewish community outside. The monastery’s cultural programme can also include spontaneous play readings, with participants assigned a script and character.
A monastery built for travelling clergy
The old Benedictine Congregation agreed in the 16th century to build a monastery that could support travelling clergy and maintain a monastic presence. Filippo Terzi designed the building. Construction began in 1604 and continued until the end of the century.
A new church was built later, along with new interior decorations. A visit with a live guide can help you understand the site’s history and notice details inside. The benches carved with mermaids have prompted conversation during tours.
Fado and other events
Fado Vitória pairs a guided visit of the monastery with a one-hour Fado concert. The performances take place in a small hall, with a singer accompanied by two acoustic guitars. The monastery’s acoustics are part of the setting, and the programme includes wine and liqueur produced by monks.
Leituras no Mosteiro offers a different kind of gathering. Held on two Tuesdays each month, the sessions are spontaneous play readings: participants receive a script and a character. The texts focus on a different country each month.
The memorial outside
Outside the monastery is a memorial to the Portuguese synagogue and Jewish community. It marks a part of Porto’s history connected to the city’s Jewish residents.
Perguntas frequentes
How long is the Fado concert?
The Fado Vitória concert lasts one hour. The experience also includes a guided visit of the monastery.
When are Leituras no Mosteiro sessions held?
The play-reading sessions take place on two Tuesdays each month. Each participant receives a script and a character.
Is there a memorial outside the monastery?
Yes. A memorial to the Portuguese synagogue and Jewish community is located outside.
