A Day in Coimbra

Coimbra is a charming city full of history, culture, and beauty. Located in central Portugal, Coimbra is known for its prestigious university, stunning architecture, and delicious cuisine. If you’re planning a trip to this city, there are plenty of things to see and do. Here are some must-see sights in Coimbra:

University of Coimbra
One of the most famous landmarks in Coimbra is its university, which is one of the oldest in Europe. The university dates back to the 13th century and is known for its impressive Baroque library, which contains over 250,000 books. Visitors can take a guided tour of the university and explore its stunning courtyards, halls, and classrooms.

Biblioteca Joanina
The Biblioteca Joanina is the Baroque library at the University of Coimbra, and it’s one of the most beautiful libraries in the world. The library was built in the 18th century and features stunning gold leaf accents, ornate woodwork, and elaborate frescoes. Visitors can take a guided tour of the library and admire its impressive collection of books and manuscripts.

Se Velha
Se Velha, or the Old Cathedral, is a Romanesque cathedral that dates back to the 12th century. The cathedral features stunning Gothic and Baroque architecture and is home to several impressive works of art, including a 16th-century altarpiece and a statue of St. James.

Mosteiro de Santa Clara-a-Velha
The Mosteiro de Santa Clara-a-Velha is a 14th-century monastery that was partially destroyed by a flood in the 17th century. Today, visitors can explore the ruins of the monastery, which include the cloisters, chapels, and refectory. The monastery also features a museum that showcases the history and artifacts of the site.

Mosteiro de Santa Clara-a-Nova
A 17th-century monastery built to replace the flooded Mosteiro de Santa Clara-a-Velha, the monastery features stunning Baroque architecture and is home to several impressive works of art, including a painting of St. Clare by Josefa de Ayala.

Conimbriga
Conimbriga is a well-preserved Roman settlement that dates back to the 2nd century. The settlement features stunning mosaics, villas, and public buildings, and visitors can take a guided tour of the site and learn about life in ancient Portugal.

Portugal dos Pequenitos
A miniature park that features scaled-down replicas of Portugal’s most famous landmarks and buildings, it is a great place to take children and offers a fun and educational way to learn about Portuguese history and culture.

Botanical Garden of the University of Coimbra
Welcome to a beautiful garden that features over 1,200 different plant species. The garden is a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city and offers visitors the chance to explore its lush greenery and beautiful flowers.

Coimbra is a city full of rich history, stunning architecture, and beautiful natural spaces. Whether you’re interested in exploring its famous university, visiting its impressive cathedrals, or strolling through its gardens and parks, there’s something for everyone in Coimbra!