As the years go by, it becomes more and more difficult to imagine what life was like in the days of knights and maidens. Currently, few cities are capable of reflecting the medieval era as faithfully as Coimbra and its historic center.
Nestled in the heart of Portugal and just over 120 kilometers from Porto, Coimbra awaits visitors with its rich history and medieval charm. The great monumental Portuguese city is also home to one of the oldest universities in Europe, the birthplace of six kings and even became the country’s capital during a period in the Middle Ages.
From the banks of the Mondego River, the houses pile up and fit together in the form of a puzzle up to the upper part of the city, where the unmistakable shape of the university can be glimpsed. From this point begins a tour of Coimbra that will take us back to the Middle Ages.
It is no secret that one of the main attractions of Coimbra is its university, which is also one of the oldest in Europe. Founded in the 13th century, it is cloistered on the hill that dominates the city, giving it an aura of grandeur. The majestic buildings of its historic campus, which are part of the World Heritage List, reflect the grandeur and splendor that it once had. And that it still holds.
The most emblematic building is the Joanina Library, a Baroque jewel that houses more than 300,000 books and manuscripts from the 16th and 18th centuries. These works are arranged in beautiful shelves with golden details in a dream setting. When visiting the rooms of this institution, it is really easy to feel the weight of history and the importance of knowledge accumulated over the centuries.
As with the university’s skyline, the imposing Sé Velha stands proudly on the horizon. Built in the middle of the 12th century, under the reign of Alfonso I of Portugal, it combines Romanesque and Gothic elements, and its elegant stone façade is a perfect example of the master craftsmanship of the time.
When crossing the doorway that leads us inside, an infinity of religious treasures unfold before us. Carved altarpieces, colorful stained glass windows and ornate chapels that will transport us to a time of religious fervor and spirituality.
The walk through Coimbra continues among the old buildings and colorful houses of the Almedina neighborhood, which hide endless stories and legends of feats and struggles. This area of ??the city, with its intricate network of alleyways, is a perfect place to get lost and discover other medieval treasures, such as the Church of Santiago and the Church of San Bartolomé.
And if we talk about medieval times, it is well worth visiting the Almedina tower, which offers impressive panoramic views. After enjoying the views, you can cross the arch located under the tower, thus crossing the only gate that has been preserved from the old city walls.
In the ancient monastery of Santa Clara-a-Velha, another of Coimbra’s medieval treasures, you can explore an equally remote past. Founded in the 14th century, it stands next to the Mondego River and has been carefully restored to reveal its original splendor. Its ruins, its Gothic arches and its quiet gardens create a magical atmosphere that will transport you to past centuries. It is the perfect place in Coimbra to take a break if you are looking for a moment of peace and serenity.
Another medieval gem not to be missed is the Monastery of Santa Cruz, an important religious center and the burial place of the kings of Portugal. It dates from the 12th century, and houses an impressive Romanesque and Gothic style church, adorned with exquisite details and a wide variety of sculptures. Going inside is like entering a world of spirituality, where the past and devotion are intertwined in every corner.
The route continues on the left bank of the Mondego River, where the Quinta das Lágrimas gardens unfold, occupying an area of ??18.3 hectares. In the very center is an imposing 19th century palace that today serves as a luxury hotel. And around it, in the garden area, exotic species predominate. Many of them with more than two hundred years.
On the southern slope, you will come across the Medieval garden, the first in Portugal, built in homage to the love affairs of Pedro and Inês. Legend has it that it was in the Quinta das Lágrimas where, in the 14th century, a romance took place between Prince Pedro and a beautiful Galician maiden named Inês de Castro. And there, too, Inês would be pierced by the daggers of three nobles whom Pedro’s father, King Alfonso IV, had ordered his death. The popular story also tells that the blood that she shed still gives color to the stones of a fountain located in the area.
Beyond medieval times, a complete visit to Coimbra must include the National Museum of Machado de Castro. Housed in a former episcopal palace, it houses a valuable collection of art and archaeology, spanning from Roman antiquity to the 20th century. Here you can admire sculptures, paintings and other historical objects that tell the story of the region from its beginnings and its evolution over the years.
Speaking of culture, Coimbra is also known for its festivities that allow everyone who visits to fully immerse themselves in their traditions. If the trip coincides with Easter, you will be able to see how the streets are filled with religious processions and theatrical performances that commemorate the passion and death of Jesus.
Another of Coimbra’s most famous traditions is the Festival das Latas, which marks the beginning of the academic year. In this lively celebration, students fill the streets with music, dance, and colorful parades.
You cannot talk about Coimbra without mentioning its gastronomy. The city has a wide variety of restaurants and taverns where you can delight all your senses with authentic Portuguese cuisine. From traditional dishes such as leitão, a roast suckling pig, to delicious desserts such as pasteis de Santa Clara. In addition, the region’s wines, such as the famous Port wine, perfectly complement the dining experience.
In short, Coimbra continues to be a medieval treasure that embodies the splendor and grandeur of this age in Portugal. Its university, its architecture, its traditional festivities and its delicious cuisine make this city an essential destination for lovers of history and culture. With open arms, the Portuguese city patiently awaits all those curious who end up marveling at its unique timeless charm.
