Palácio da Justiça (Palace of Justice), Coimbra

The Palace of Justice (Palacio da Justiça) in Coimbra is a historic building that has undergone several transformations throughout its existence. Located in the heart of the city, it currently houses Coimbra's Law Courts. However, its history dates back to the 16th century, when it was established as the College of Saint Thomas, a Dominican friary and house of formation affiliated with the University of Coimbra.

The College of Saint Thomas, founded in 1538 and named after Thomas Aquinas, was built in the 1540s under Fr. Martinho de Ledesma, with designs by Diogo de Castilho. Centered around a cloister, it housed friars and served educational purposes. In the 18th century, the eastern upper floor was expanded, adding windows and a balcony to reflect contemporary styles.

Situated on Sofia Street (Rua da Sofia), a street historically lined with educational institutions belonging to various religious orders, the College of Saint Thomas was part of a significant academic and religious hub. The street itself derives its name from the Greek word "Sophia," meaning wisdom, reflecting its scholarly importance.

After Portugal dissolved religious orders in 1834, the building became a warehouse before Joao Maria Correia Ayres de Campos, 1st Count of Ameal, turned it into Ameal Palace. In 1895, architect Silva Pinto redesigned it in a Neoclassical Revivalist style, preserving the cloister, vaulted interiors, and Renaissance portico. The Count used the palace to house his renowned art collection and library.

In 1928, the Ministry of Justice acquired the building, converting it into the Palace of Justice. Renovations, led by Manuel Abreu Castelo Branco and completed in 1930, included relocating the Renaissance portico to the Machado de Castro Museum. Despite its transformation from a college to a residence and then a courthouse, it remains historically significant and is still known by its former names in Coimbra.