The University of Coimbra, located in central Portugal, is not only the oldest in the country but also one of Europe’s most prestigious universities, boasting remarkable tradition and history. In 2013, it was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site under the name “University of Coimbra – Alta and Sofia.”
Within the university, you’ll find a series of majestic, historic, and opulent buildings that truly justify its World Heritage status!
The student uniform at the captivating University of Coimbra World Heritage Site is a black cloak called a capa, which closely resembles the cloaks worn in the Harry Potter series. Around the city of Coimbra, you can often spot university students walking in these cloaks, and they look incredibly cool!
What is the University of Coimbra – Alta and Sofia?
The University of Coimbra is a prestigious institution boasting one of the richest traditions and histories in Europe and is the oldest university in Portugal. It is registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site under the name “University of Coimbra – Alta and Sofia.”
Coimbra is a city that has developed alongside this university, with the campus situated on top of a hill and the city sprawling below it. The names Alta and Sofia, which appear in the World Heritage designation, are district names, each preserving historic buildings closely tied to the university. The Alta district is home to the current university buildings and various historical structures, while the Sofia district encompasses the area around Sofia Street and the Monastery of Santa Cruz.
The University of Coimbra was recognized for its value because, during the era of the Portuguese maritime empire, it exerted a strong influence on the colonies, including on the universities established there. Furthermore, a European university alliance was created, named after Coimbra, bringing together universities from different countries that possess long histories and great prestige.
Name: University of Coimbra – Alta and Sofia
Address: Universidade de Coimbra Paco das Escolas 3004-531 Coimbra
Official/related website URL: https://www.visitportugal.com/ja/node/73754
How to access the University of Coimbra – Alta and Sofia
To visit the University of Coimbra, you will take a train journey from Lisbon.
From Lisbon’s “Lisboa Santa Apolónia” station, it takes just under two hours to reach “Coimbra-B” station. From there, transfer and ride for 6 minutes to Coimbra station. From the station, it is about a 15-minute walk to the university.
Highlights of the University of Coimbra – Alta and Sofia ①: Joanina Library
Among the World Heritage sites of the University of Coimbra, the most famous is the Joanina Library. This library is often described as the most beautiful in the world and is an unmissable highlight when touring the University of Coimbra.
Built around 1720, this library features luxurious golden bookshelves and holds numerous historically significant collections, with around 300,000 volumes dating from the 16th to the 18th centuries. The ceiling is adorned with magnificent frescoes, and a lavishly gilded pipe organ enhances the grandeur of the space, making this already splendid library even more breathtaking!
Its beauty is truly worthy of World Heritage status, and it is a must-visit spot when you come to Coimbra. Many visitors travel to Coimbra specifically to see this library!
Highlights of the University of Coimbra – Alta and Sofia ②: Monastery of Santa Cruz
The Monastery of Santa Cruz is part of the Sofia district within the World Heritage Site “University of Coimbra – Alta and Sofia.” Built in 1131 by Portugal’s first king, Afonso Henriques, it is a historic monastery that Coimbra takes great pride in, predating the founding of the University of Coimbra.
In the 16th century, the monastery underwent major renovations. Originally constructed in the Romanesque style, it was transformed into a blend of Manueline and Renaissance architecture. The façade is solemn and extremely beautiful, making it a popular photo spot for visitors to this World Heritage Site.
Here you can find the tomb of Afonso Henriques, and the two-toned white and blue tiles (azulejos) are truly splendid. When visiting this World Heritage Site, be sure to compare the azulejos of the chapel and those of this monastery!
Highlights of the University of Coimbra – Alta and Sofia ③: Chapel of São Miguel
Next to the library stands the Chapel of São Miguel, which is also part of the World Heritage Site “University of Coimbra – Alta and Sofia.” Built in the 16th century, this chapel boasts an incredibly luxurious interior, giving you a true sense of historic Europe.
The walls and ceilings are adorned with colorful azulejos, and the altar and pipe organ are decorated with Baroque-style ornaments and statues. Though small, the chapel’s vivid colors and grandeur create an overwhelming atmosphere! Among Portuguese azulejos, its richness of color is particularly rare and said to be exceptionally opulent.
If you visit the World Heritage Site of the University of Coimbra, the Chapel of São Miguel is a must-see.
◎ Summary
We have introduced the World Heritage Site “University of Coimbra – Alta and Sofia,” the oldest university in Portugal. This historic university is full of highlights, including the library often described as the most beautiful in the world, as well as monasteries and chapels.
Additionally, Coimbra is known for its local specialties, such as chanfana, a goat meat stew cooked in red wine, and pastel de Tentúgal, a sweet pastry filled with egg yolk cream. Be sure to enjoy not only this magnificent World Heritage Site but also the local gourmet delights.