Coimbra and its five secrets
If you want a surge of energy and youth during your trip to Portugal, we suggest looking into the following option: Coimbra and its five secrets.
Today, Coimbra is probably the best place to be if you are a student. You will be happy here, amongst books and libraries, roaming about the Coimbra University, one of the oldest higher education establishments in the world!
But what you may not know is… secret number one of Coimbra: it is Portugal’s former capital city. The town revolves around the beautiful old town center with its 12th century cathedral Se Velha, built in the Romanesque style.
Secret number two: did you know that, since there is a Se Velha, there must also be a Se Nova in Coimbra? This second building is just as majestic and was consecrated in the year 1640. Its flamboyant exterior is matched by the majestic interior.
Secret number three: As many other cities in today’s Portugal, Coimbra used to be ruled by the Moors in the middle ages. The Arco de Almedina is the remaining part of the gate to the old town. Its structure dates back to the 9h century and it would seem people did know how to build back then, because it’s still standing. The name comes from the Arabic “medina” – “town”. The strong defensive walls, however, are for the most part a thing of the past – with a less threatening present, the gate today is a tourist attraction and the annexed building occasionally hosts exhibitions.
Secret four: Da Sereia Gardens are the perfect place to take a stroll. If on the other hand you want to go by car, you can rent a car in Coimbra at a fair rate.
Secret number five: Kings were born here and some have also found a resting place in town.
You will definitely feel the grandiose air of the place during your stay in town!
