Coimbra is home of Coimbra University, one of the oldest in Europe, founded in Lisbon in 1290 and then transferred to Coimbra in 1537. The University buildings are situated on the top of a hill, which overlooks the city. It is well worth a visit. You enter the old part of the University through an Iron Gate. Inside the gate is the enormous University Patio, with a large statute of João III. Beside the gate, to the left when entering, you will see the long low palace wing.
The University Library is in the far-left corner and is well worth taking the tours that are provided. It is fascinating, very large and very old. If you're here in the end of April or beginning of May make it a point to see the students singing Fado and burning their ribbons at the end of the school year.
The University's Eighteen-century clock stands in the right hand corner of the courtyard, domineering the skyline. Next to it is a double staircase leading to other parts of the University. Some of the students still wear their black suits and capes, pinned with a colorful ribbon indicating the student's course of study. There are also tears on their capes, which indicate the student's romantic conquests.
The other highlight in Coimbra is the Baixa. This is the part of the city down by the river. It is full of narrow streets and crowded shops, banks, churches, cafés, hotels and walks to stroll along the Mondego rivers' banks.
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