PENEDO DA SAUDADE
penedo da saudade, a lush and serene spot in the heart of coimbra, is renowned for its rich history and stunning views. this mythical place was once a significant location where king pedro came to grieve the death of his beloved d. inês de castro, giving the site its evocative name, saudade, which reflects deep emotional longing.
before becoming a popular belvedere and viewpoint, penedo da saudade was a cherished retreat for university students. the area is adorned with numerous plaques commemorating class reunions and academic events from the 19th and 20th centuries.
from this vantage point, visitors can marvel at the evolving landscape of coimbra, making it an ideal location for a moment of peace and tranquility while enjoying panoramic views of the city's historical and modern changes.
JARDIM BOTÂNICO
located in the heart of the city, the botanical garden is another place steeped in history. founded in 1772 with the goal of cultivating all kinds of plants that could be used in medicine, it is still affiliated with the university.
whether it's in the spring when everything is in bloom or in the fall when the leaves cover the ground, the botanical garden is always a fantastic place to visit.
UNIVERSIDADE
coimbra university, one of the oldest universities in europe, stands as a central icon in the city. established in 1290 by king dinis in lisbon, it was permanently relocated to Coimbra in 1537, taking residence in the historic paço real buildings. each year, thousands of students walk through its hallowed halls, proudly wearing the traditional capa e batina. despite numerous changes and modernizations, including new buildings and renovations, coimbra university retains a unique, timeless charm that reflects its rich history and enduring academic legacy.
SÉ VELHA
at the heart of this historic city lies the sé velha, an iconic landmark that has long been central to student culture. this medieval cathedral, dating back to the 12th century, is not only a stunning architectural marvel but also a key venue for university nightlife. with its charming cobbled streets and historic ambiance, sé velha provides the perfect backdrop for the city's annual serenade, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring coimbra's unique blend of history and student energy.
BELVEDERES
an excellent option for visitors is the vale do inferno viewpoint, located on the left bank of the mondego river. this scenic spot offers some of the best views of coimbra, providing a comprehensive panorama of the city. situated along the historic road that once led to the santa clara bridge, this viewpoint delivers a complete view of coimbra’s landscape.
from this vantage point, you can admire several notable landmarks, including choupal, lapa dos esteios, and quinta das lágrimas. additionally, the viewpoint offers stunning vistas of the mondego river's banks and course, as well as the city's distinctive areas, baixa and alta. whether you’re a history enthusiast or a nature lover, vale do inferno provides an unforgettable experience with its breathtaking views.
for a memorable dining experience with a view, coimbra offers several excellent options. head to the rooftop of the sapiência boutique hotel for a chic atmosphere and panoramic vistas. alternatively, the passaporte provides one of the best views in the city, making it a top choice for those seeking a scenic dining experience. another great option is the loggia restaurant, known for its stunning terrace views.
if you’re looking for a classic coimbra experience, the justiça e paz terrace offers a charming and traditional ambiance. each of these locations provides a unique way to enjoy the city’s beautiful skyline and landmarks while savoring a delicious meal.
cláudia cavaleiro the editor in chief for CINCO editorial. born in '82 in coimbra, she is graduated in philosophy from the university of coimbra. passionate about books and podcasts in a geek kind of way, she always find something interesting to research. loves to bring awareness to social problems and loves working at CINCO!
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