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The day in Coimbra begins with a visit to Quinta das Lágrimas.
There we find the legend about the romance between D. Pedro — the future king of Portugal and Inês de Castro. The story tells that Quinta das Lágrimas was the venue of the meetings between the two. It was here that Inês de Castro was killed at the behest of King D. Afonso IV. It is said that when she be addressed by the maiden killers, she have cried so much that her tears gave birth to the Fountain of Tears. More than 600 years the water still runs there, and here is said to be the blood of Inês de Castro. In the 19th century, was built the romantic garden with meandering lakes and several exotic species of trees from five continents.
From the place where is told the most beautiful love story that has inspired poets, we went to the University of Coimbra. The University of Coimbra is one of the oldest in Europe. Founded in 1290 by King D. Dinis. During the 14th and 16th centuries its location alternated between the cities of Lisbon and Coimbra. In 1537, on the reign of King D. João III, it was finally installed in Coimbra, in the medieval royal palace.
The following buildings are part of the university:
Library — builted by King D. João V in 1717, is the best known Portuguese library. Built in Baroque style, it impresses by the gorgeus decoration.
Chapel of St. Michael — built in 1517 in its interior is a baroque pipe organ decorated in gilt builted in the reign of king D. João V.
Medieval and Academic Prison — situated on the ground floor of the library, is the only medieval prison in the country.
Hall of Capelos — here are exposed the portraits of all the Portuguese kings. It is in this room who hold the most important and solemn academic ceremonies. Attached to this room are the Private Examination Room and Arms Room.
University Tower — considered the symbol of the University, is the ex-libris of the city of Coimbra. With 33.5 meters high, in the top is a magnificent viewpoin of the city.
After the visit to the University and lunch, we suggest lowering the Rua do Quebra Costas and visit to the following monuments:
Sé Nova — Church founded by the Jesuits in 1598. Its interior is decorated in gilt and has two pipe organs from the 18th century.
Sé Velha — Built in the 12thcentury, this church from the outside reminds a small castle.
Igreja de Santa Cruz — Built in the reign of D. Afonso Henriques, is where are buried the first Portuguese king (D. Afonso Henriques), and his son, D. Sancho I.
