The Legacy of Portugal’s Oldest University

Coimbra, a historic city located in the heart of Portugal, is known for its rich academic heritage and its status as home to the oldest university in the country, the University of Coimbra. The university, founded in 1290, has shaped both the city’s culture and its identity, making Coimbra a place where education, tradition, and history converge. 

The University of Coimbra has long been the heart of intellectual life in Portugal. In the early 14th century, King Dinis established the university in Lisbon, but in 1537, it was moved to Coimbra, where it remains today. Over the centuries, the university has produced some of Portugal’s most influential thinkers, writers, and political leaders. One of the university’s most notable features is the Joanina Library, a magnificent Baroque structure that houses thousands of rare and ancient books. The library is a symbol of the university’s long-standing commitment to preserving knowledge and fostering education. 

Beyond the walls of the university, Coimbra has a long history that stretches back to Roman times. The city was originally founded as a Roman settlement called Aeminium, and many remnants of this era can still be seen today, such as the Romanesque architecture of the Conímbriga archaeological site. The city also played a key role in the Christianization of Portugal, with its churches and monasteries standing as testaments to the city’s religious heritage. 

Coimbra’s old town is a maze of narrow streets and alleys, where visitors can explore centuries of history. The Sé Velha (Old Cathedral) is one of the city’s most significant landmarks. This Romanesque cathedral, with its imposing structure and intricately detailed interior, has stood for over 800 years and remains a symbol of the city’s medieval past. Nearby, the Almedina Arch offers a glimpse into the city’s defensive architecture and marks the entrance to the old town. 

One of the most unique aspects of Coimbra’s cultural identity is fado, a genre of traditional Portuguese music. Coimbra’s version of fado, often called “Fado de Coimbra,” is distinct from the more widely known Fado of Lisbon. This style of music is traditionally performed by students of the University of Coimbra, who sing songs of longing and nostalgia, often accompanied by the guitar. Fado de Coimbra has become synonymous with the city and continues to be an important part of Coimbra’s cultural life. 

Each year, Coimbra celebrates its cultural heritage with a variety of festivals, including the Queima das Fitas (Burning of the Ribbons), a lively event that marks the end of the academic year for university students. During this festival, students dress in black robes, parade through the city, and celebrate with music and dance, honoring the traditions of the university. 

Today, Coimbra continues to thrive as an academic, cultural, and historical center. The University of Coimbra remains a leading institution in Portugal, while the city itself draws tourists from around the world who come to experience its unique blend of history, education, and culture. Coimbra’s influence on Portugal’s intellectual and cultural landscape is undeniable, and its legacy continues to shape the country’s identity.