[2025 Almedina Attraction] Travel Guide for Baroque Library - University of Coimbra (Updated Mar)

#getgoing2025 Coimbra University & Library One of the oldest universities in the world, the University of Coimbra is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a symbol of Portugal's academic history. Its stunning library, the Biblioteca Joanina, is a masterpiece of Baroque architecture, with ornate gilded shelves and intricate painted ceilings. The university's historic buildings, courtyards, and gardens offer a glimpse into Portugal's intellectual and cultural heritage. Climbing the university tower provides panoramic views of the city.

Coimbra is an autonomous city in Portugal, the fourth largest city center, a city with a rich history and academic atmosphere, carrying the essence of national culture and tradition. 🍠Must-visit attractions University of Coimbra: As the oldest university in Portugal, its architectural complex is listed as a World Cultural Heritage by UNESCO and is a symbol of the city. University of Coimbra's library: Built in 1717, it is one of the oldest and most magnificent libraries in Portugal. The most famous is its unique rectangular hall, known as the "Grand Reading Room", the top is decorated with exquisite gold wood carvings, and the shelves are filled with a wealth of manuscripts, ancient books and precious documents. Santa Clara-a-Velha Monastery: This monastery was built in the 14th century, is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, and is also the resting place of St. Clare. New Cathedral or Sé Nova: This Baroque-style cathedral was built in the 18th century, the interior is beautifully decorated, and it is the religious center of Coimbra. Conímbriga Museum: Located near the city, the ancient city site of Capuada, displays archaeological discoveries from the Roman era. Barragem da Aguieira: This dam is surrounded by beautiful natural scenery and is an ideal place for hiking and enjoying lake views. 🍠Recommended food Coimbra’s Broa: This is a traditional cornbread, served with various meats or cheeses, and is one of the local specialties. Queijo de Sicó: This cheese originates from the nearby mountains, has a rich taste, and is a delicious representative of Portuguese cheese. Pastel de Tentúgal: This is a traditional Portuguese pastry made from egg yolk syrup and dough. 🍠Shopping areas Praça do Comércio: This square has various shops and cafes, suitable for strolling and casual shopping.

Must see is library BUT there’s no tickets only to a library., minimum bundle ticket is with lab and church visiting. To justify the high price I think because at the end the tour to visit the library last literally about 20 min. They limit number of people to 60, so everyone enters and leaves at the same time. You get 10 min in first room, another 10 min in the second/main room. They open and close doors just for the group. And for this “great” experience they charge more than 14 eur. Chemical lab was interesting but most of booths don’t function. Church is 3 min visit. It’s just one more church. Very small. Quite a disappointment