Coimbra

195 km north of Lisbon city is located Coimbra. In this part of Central Portugal, this is the biggest and most significant settlement. Coimbra is the third largest in the country after the capital Lisbon and Porto. In the 12th century the village served as the capital of the country during the 12th dynasty.

Coimbra protects invaluable treasures, to remind the city that it once was part of Roman Empire. Since then, several other archaeological monuments are established, including a wonderfully preserved aqueduct. The easiest way to get here is by taking a train or bus from the capital Lisbon or from Porto.

The town proudly boasts that it has the oldest university not only in the territory of the Iberian Peninsula, but also across Europe. After the founding of the Academic Center in 1290, Coimbra begins to become a major cultural center. Because of the monumental buildings and history of the university, today thousands of tourists come annually here.

Originally the university was built in Lisbon, but in 1538 it was moved here. It was built near the hill of the river Mondegu. Gradually, some university buildings began to arise as a result of which today is located around it, the old city of Coimbra. The modern part of the city extends along the river, beyond the hills.

The main Square is inside the university. Here is the entrance to the baroque church. You must visit the Cathedral "is Vella", which is in Romanesque style and dates from the 12th century. Inside, its interior does not impress with something spectacular, but a very nice golden altar from the 6-7th Century.

Especially impressive is the university library, with amazing huge beautifully decorated scales. Among the coatings with ceiling frescoes and unique wooden tables are stored more than 300 000 books.

Coimbra has centuries of tradition in football. The local team is known as Academica Coimbra. It was created by the University Student Union in Coimbra back in 1876