Coimbra: What Portugal's Top University Could Teach Us About It's Culture

To say that Coimbra is a historically and culturally significant destination worth visiting would be an understatement. It was Portugal’s capital for 124 years between the 12th and 13th centuries, but this classical city is still often eclipsed by metropolitan Lisbon or distinguished Porto. Catching the eyes of discerning travelers who have done their research, however, is Coimbra University, the city’s 700-year-old patrimonial jewel. Imagine how much you can you learn about Portugal from within these ancient walls.

Like the pages of a pop-up book, Coimbra bursts from the landscape, with charming architecture climbing along the hill beside the windy Mondego River, and sprawled across one side is where you’ll find the buildings of Coimbra University. Founded in 1290, it is the oldest institution of higher education in Portugal and one of the oldest universities in the world. Originally established in Lisbon, the campus moved a few times before finally ending up at The Royal Palace of Coimbra, once the family home of Portugal’s first dynasty. It made the UNESCO World Heritage Site list in 2013.

Coimbra city perched beside the Mondego River

As is the case across Portugal’s other regal cities, Coimbra and Coimbra University showcase an exemplary mix of old vs new, modern vs traditional, and has moved forward holding strong to ancient customs while flourishing progressive initiatives. At the University (and around Portugal), breakthrough technologies develop in contemporary buildings that shine in the sunlight amidst medieval walls and centuries-old neighborhoods. Among the University’s 8 academic faculties, extra recognition is noticed towards science, technology, and medicine/pharmacy, keeping in line with the country’s focus on technological and scientific advances.

Coimbra University students, some wearing the traditional uniforms

Unique university traditions also show off Portugal’s penchant for celebrations and two of the most significant are the Festa das Latas and the Queima das Fitas. Taking place at the beginning and end of each academic year, respectively, the events surrounding these festivals signify changes in student life, either welcoming new students (by parading through the streets with tins tied around their legs) or saying goodbye to graduates (with a celebratory burning of ribbons).

Each week-long series of events includes concerts, highlighting in its way the country’s affinity for music. Religious ceremonies and blessings, like the Benção das Pastas, are other important features, dating back to when the church was a ruling power. Although today the majority of Portuguese citizens don’t practice religion in every day life and only 1/3 of the population routinely attends mass, religious heritage remains culturally significant. Many national holidays stem from religious events and it’s common to celebrate sacraments. Portugal’s churches, monasteries, and chapels are among the most beautiful buildings in the country, and Coimbra University’s representation is the Chapel of São Miguel.

Coimbra University’s Chapel of São Miguel

Bookworms may believe we saved the best piece of information for last and we agree that Coimbra University’s Joanine Library is a show of homage representing the country’s long-standing affinity towards literature and exquisite architecture. Built as part of the campus in the 18th century to house the school’s written collections, it is considered one of the most beautiful libraries in the world. It seems fitting that some of Portugal’s greatest writers and poets were also alumni of Coimbra University, including Luís de Camões (the “Portuguese Shakespeare”), José Maria Eça de Queiroz, and Almeida Garrett.

It’s possible to go on and on; covering each way Coimbra Univerisity can teach us about Portuguese culture could take a semester’s worth of time but visiting is an excellent first step.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

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