Coimbra of the Mondego river

Placed on a hill overlooking the city, the University of Coimbra with its colleges grew and evolved over more than seven centuries within the old town.

Notable university buildings include the 12th century Cathedral of Santa Cruz and a number of 16th century colleges, the Royal Palace of Alcáçova, housed the University since 1537, the Joanine Library with its rich baroque decor, the 18th century Botanical Garden and University Press, as well as the large “University City” created during the 1940’s.

The University’s buildings became a reference in the development of other institutions of higher education in the Portuguese-speaking world where it also exerted a major influence.

Coimbra offers an outstanding example of an integrated university city with a specific urban typology as well as its own ceremonial and cultural traditions that have been kept alive through the ages.

The University of Coimbra, one of the most relevant educational institutions in Portugal and abroad, was granted in June 2013 UNESCO’s World Heritage status.