Carmo and Carmelitas churches in Porto: the tiled façade and the Hidden House

Updated on October 18, 2026

The Carmo church (Igreja do Carmo), on Praça de Gomes Teixeira, is known for the side wall entirely covered in blue-and-white azulejos that illustrate the early days of the Carmelite order. It stands next to the plainer Carmelitas church (Igreja dos Carmelitas), and the two buildings are separated only by a house one metre wide, the Casa Escondida (Hidden House). The exterior is free to see at any time; the full visit inside (church, catacombs, Hidden House) is paid; the price is to be confirmed on the spot. The Carmo church, in late Baroque and Rococo style, was built between 1756 and 1768. Its large side wall was covered in azulejos in 1912, from a design by Silvestro Silvestri. The Carmelitas church, in Mannerist style, dates from the 17th century.

Highlights

The azulejo façade

The blue-and-white panels show Mount Carmel and scenes from the history of the order. They can be seen from the street: you do not need to go inside to enjoy them.

The Hidden House

This house, less than a metre wide, between the two churches, is said to have been built to respect the ban on two convents touching. It can be visited with the entrance ticket.

The interior and the catacombs

The Carmo church has gilded altarpieces and a richly decorated choir; the catacombs and the sacristy are part of the paid visit. Visiting hours change during services (masses, weddings): the interior may then be closed.

The nearby Fonte dos Leões

Right opposite, Praça de Gomes Teixeira has the former university building and the Lions fountain, a student meeting point.

Practical info

Tips

The best view of the façade is from the opposite pavement, early in the morning. Prices and hours for the visit vary from one source to another: confirm them on the spot before paying. Combine the visit with the Chapel of Souls and the Livraria Lello, 5 to 10 minutes on foot. Information gathered in October 2026, prices to be checked.

How to get there

Praça de Gomes Teixeira / Rua do Carmo, 4050-161 Porto. São Bento or Trindade metro station about 10 minutes on foot; tram 22 stops right in front, at the Carmo stop. The area is sloping and cobbled.