The intellectual center of Portugal is often touted as being the city of Coimbra which has a long history of inspiring some of the finest poets and writers in Portugal. Located along the Mondego River, the history of Coimbra can be dated back to the days of the Great Roman Empire.
While ruins can be found spread out throughout the district, in the nearby port town of Figueira da Foz you will find a 9th century castle. And closer, in the town of Condeixa-a-Nova, you can visit the ancient ruins of the city of Conímbriga.
cathedral of Coimbra, Portugal
In the historic center of the city, you will find the University of Coimbra which has been home to some of the most influential minds in Portugese history. There you will find a library which was built in the 18th century, an awe-inspiring botanical gardens as well as a cathedral which dates back to the 16th century.
However, if you want some culture, a stop in the National Museum Machado de Castro is a must. To get to the historic center of Coimbra, you better be wearing some good shoes because you will need to climb the Quebra Costas stairway.
Courtyard of the University of Coimbra, Portugal
Every year, there are many large celebrations in Coimbra which attracts numerous visitors. The students of the university can be seen parading through the town in their traditional black robes as the townsfolk cheer and sing folk songs. In May of every year, the graduation ceremony known as Queima das Fitas brings every corner of the town to life as the students celebrate the end of their studies.
Just outside of town, you will find the lovely Portugal dos Pequenitos which is a popular theme park known for its small-scale, historically accurate replicas of several Portugese villages.
Portugal dos Pequenitos in Coimbra, Portugal
For some of the oldest architecture in the city, you can stop by and check out the 12th century Santa Cruz Monastery. It was once an important place where some of the country’s intellectuals elite met on a regular basis. Then there is also the 14th century Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Velha which today stands in ruins.
For nature lovers, one has to stop by and check out the Choupal National Forest which is named after the poplar trees that fill it; the forest was actually planted back in the 18th century. You can also stop by the Quinta das Lágrimas gardens which are home to the famous Fountain of Tears. The fountain is known for the scarlet-colored plants within which are said to symbolize the execution of Inês de Castro back in 1355.
There is something for everyone in Coimbra. Thanks to its school, the night life in the city is also very lively during the school year. You will find a number of bars and restaurants spread out throughout the city where you can taste many of the local delicacies and of course the locally made wines.
