Coimbra

Introducing Coimbra

Like a great fortress of learning, Coimbra’s ancient university occupies strategic heights above a lazy stretch of the Rio Mondego. Clambering up to the crown of monumental halls and libraries is an absurdly picturesque maze of medieval streets. Yet the whole scene avoids preciousness thanks to an uncommonly raucous student life.

Winding alleyways still channel last-minute dashes to lectures, and cafés buzz with utopian yearnings and, after a certain hour, beery good times.

Founded in 1290, the city’s university has a pedigree equal to any European seat of learning, though in fact Coimbra only became its permanent home in 1537. The city was also Portugal’s capital in the 12th and 13th centuries, evidenced by a small but remarkable assembly of Romanesque and Gothic buildings. Outside the dense old city, you can also enjoy pleasantly leafy walks along Coimbra’s riverfront, shady boulevards, and numerous parks and gardens. The city also makes a fine base for day trips, including mountain excursions or an afternoon wander among the remarkable Roman ruins at Conimbriga. If you’re here in May, throw yourself into Coimbra’s boozy student bash, Queima das Fitas.

Last updated: Feb 17, 2009