Private Tour to University of Coimbra and an ancient Roman city

Entrance of the former Royal Palace to which two portals with alleged sculptures of ancient faculties (Medicine, Law, Theology and Canon Law) were approved in 1634, the founding monarch, King D. Dinis and King D. João III and Wisdom, insignia of the institution.

This historic university is one of the oldest in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Optional (13,50 € p/person)
a. Be sure to check out the Biblioteca Joanina, the university's stunning Baroque library with a collection of over 300,000 books.
b. Royal Palace it was built at the end of the 10th century, serving as a fortress for the governor of the city during Islamic rule. In 1131, it became the first Portuguese royal household, the residence of Afonso Henriques, the first king of Portugal.
c. Saint Michael's Chapel, that was probably built in the 12th century and served as the private oratory for the former Royal Palace.

Founded in 1542 by the Jesuits (Society of Jesus), it was the first faculty of the order and the largest of the city. Its objective was to prepare missionaries for all territories discovered and conquered by the Portuguese.

Founded in 1131, with the advancement and encouragement of King Afonso Henriques, for the Order of St. Augustine, it was the most influential convent house of the city, contributing to the cultural, economic and political development of the country.

As soon as the bishopric's place is transferred from Conímbriga to Æminium – former roman city of Coimbra -, a temple will have been built. However, the only physical evidence that attests to the existence of such a kind of building dates from 1117 – a date inscribed on the church's holy stone.

Commonly known as "Arcos do Jardim" – Archs of the Garden - given its location, contiguous to the Botanical Garden of the Coimbra University, this aqueduct was built in 1570 by King D. Sebastião, to supply water to the uptown by taking advantage of the layout of a previous Roman aqueduct.

Classified as National Monument since 1910, this Monastery was originally built as a Convent in 1283 at this site due to its proximity to the water but for this same reason, the cyclic floods have obliged to its total abandonment in 1677.

Meanwhile, Queen Santa Isabel de Aragão became interested in it and built a Monastery in gothic style in the 14th century.

The winding streets and colorful buildings of the old town are a delight to explore. Try the local cuisine: Coimbra is known for its traditional cuisine, including chanfana (goat stew), leitão (roast pig), and arroz doce (sweet rice pudding).

This ancient Roman city was one of the largest in Portugal and is now an impressive archaeological site. Be sure to check out the well-preserved mosaics and the forum. (Extra cost of 4,5€ p/person).