Location
Coimbra is located in central Portugal on the Mondego River, 195 km north of Lisbon, the capital. It is less than 50 km from the Atlantic Ocean.
History
Coimbra's history dates back to Roman times, when it was called Aeminium. In the middle of the12th century, the first Portuguese King, Afonso Henriques, made Coimbra the capital of the country, which it remained until 1255. The famous University of Coimbra was founded in 1290 in Lisbon, but later moved to Coimbra.
Famous Landmarks
Coimbra is a historic city and has several famous landmarks of interest to the visitor. The most famous is the old university. You can also visit the Santa Cruz monastery, the Old and New Cathedrals, and the Machado de Castro museum, one of the most important art museums in the country.
Music
Coimbra is famous for Coimbra fado, a fado genre that originated in the city. It is played exclusively by male performers dressed in traditional student uniforms.
Student Festivals
Coimbra is also known for its semi-annual student festivals, which take place at the beginning and end of the academic year. Students wearing traditional black capes parade through the streets of the city.
