Coimbra

Coimbra is one of Portugal's most historically and culturally weighty cities, settled on the banks of the Mondego River. Its identity is overwhelmingly defined by the presence of its ancient university and the profound academic traditions that permeate the entire urban landscape.

The city's crown jewel is the University of Coimbra, one of the oldest continually operating universities in the world, whose buildings crown the highest hill. Declared a UNESCO World heritage site, the university is famous for the stunning Baroque architecture of its main quadrangle, including the magnificent Joaninha Library, a masterpiece of gilded wood, exotic woods, and ornate ceilings.

Below the Alta (High Town) where the university reside, the city descends to the Baixa (Low Town) and the river, filled with shops and traditional businesses. Coimbra is also the spiritual home of a unique, melancholic style of Fado music, distinctly separate from the Lisbon variety, often performed by students wearing their traditional black capes (capa e batina).

The overall feel of Coimbra is one of layered history-it was Portugal's medieval capital for over a century- combined with the youthful energy of its academic population. It is a place of grand architecture, solemn tradition, and lyrical artistry.