Visiting the University of Coimbra and the Joanina Library

The University of Coimbra is one of the oldest universities in Europe and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its hilltop courtyard, grand halls and dazzling baroque library are among the highlights of central Portugal. Here’s how to visit.

Quick answer: buy a ticket at the university’s visitor centre or online. It includes a timed slot for the Biblioteca Joanina, so book ahead in busy months. Allow 2 hours. Highlights are the Joanina library, the Sala dos Capelos (Great Hall), the Chapel of São Miguel, the Academic Prison and the views from the courtyard. See Coimbra tours.

About the university

Founded in 1290 in Lisbon, the university moved permanently to Coimbra in the 16th century, into the royal palace on top of the hill. Students still wear traditional black capes, and the city’s life revolves around the academic year, including the Queima das Fitas festival in May.

What to see

• Biblioteca Joanina: an 18th-century baroque library of gilded and lacquered wood. A colony of bats lives inside and eats insects that would damage the books. Visits are short and photos are not allowed.
• The Paço das Escolas: the main courtyard, with views over the river and the old town.
• Sala dos Capelos: the Great Hall, where doctoral ceremonies still take place.
• The Chapel of São Miguel: tiles and a spectacular baroque organ.
• The Academic Prison beneath the library.
• The bell tower (when open), for views across the city.

Tips

• Book the library slot first, then plan the rest around it.
• Hills: the university is at the top of a steep old town. Take a taxi up and walk down.
• Fado de Coimbra: hear the city’s own style of fado, traditionally sung by men in student capes.
• Stay over: see where to stay in Coimbra.

More: the Coimbra guide, UNESCO sites in Portugal and Lisbon to Porto by train (Coimbra is on the way).

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