Coimbra Highlights

Coimbra is a historic city located in central Portugal. It is the fourth-largest urban center in the country and is renowned for its rich history, cultural heritage, and prestigious university.

Here are some key facts about Coimbra:

University of Coimbra: The city is home to one of the oldest universities in continuous operation in the world, the University of Coimbra, which was founded in 1290. The university is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is known for its beautiful architecture, including the Joanine Library and the University Tower.

Fado Music: Coimbra is considered the birthplace of Fado music, a traditional Portuguese music genre known for its melancholic and expressive nature. Coimbra Fado is distinct from the Lisbon Fado and is typically sung by male voices.

Coimbra’s Old Town: The historic center of Coimbra, known as the “Baixa,” is a maze of narrow streets, medieval buildings, and lively squares. It is an excellent place to explore and discover the city’s charm, including the famous Coimbra Cathedral and the Monastery of Santa Cruz.

Botanical Garden: Coimbra’s Botanical Garden, established in 1772, is one of the oldest in Europe. It covers an area of approximately 13 hectares and showcases a wide variety of plant species, including some exotic and rare plants.

Festa das Latas e Imposição de Insígnias: Every year in October, Coimbra hosts the “Festa das Latas e Imposição de Insígnias,” a traditional student festival that marks the beginning of the academic year. The celebrations involve parades, concerts, and other festivities, attracting both locals and visitors.

Coimbra’s Cuisine: The city boasts a delicious gastronomy, with regional specialties such as “Leitão à Bairrada” (roast suckling pig) and “Chanfana” (slow-cooked goat or lamb stew). Coimbra is also known for its sweet treats, including “Pasteis de Tentúgal” (egg custard pastries) and “Barriga de Freira” (nun’s bellies).

Portugal dos Pequenitos: Located in Coimbra, Portugal dos Pequenitos is a miniature park that showcases scaled-down replicas of Portuguese buildings, monuments, and traditional houses. It provides an educational and entertaining experience for both children and adults.

Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, music, or simply enjoying the unique atmosphere of a vibrant Portuguese city, Coimbra offers a rich and rewarding experience for visitors.