World Heritage Identification Number: 1387
World Heritage since: 2013
Category: Cultural Heritage
Transboundary Heritage: No
Endangered Heritage: No
Country: 🇵🇹 Portugal
Continent: Europe
UNESCO World Region: Europe and North America
Map
The University of Coimbra - A Timeless Testament to Higher Learning and Cultural Tradition
The University of Coimbra, located in the heart of Portugal, stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of higher learning and cultural tradition. Established in 1290, this prestigious institution has weathered the passage of time, evolving into one of the oldest universities in continuous operation worldwide. In 2013, UNESCO recognized the University of Coimbra's architectural, cultural, and historical significance by designating it a World Heritage Site.
More to come…UNESCO Description of the World Heritage Site
Situated on a hill overlooking the city, the University of Coimbra with its colleges grew and evolved over more than seven centuries within the old town. Notable university buildings include the 12th century Cathedral of Santa Cruz and a number of 16th century colleges, the Royal Palace of Alcáçova, which has housed the University since 1537, the Joanine Library with its rich baroque decor, the 18th century Botanical Garden and University Press, as well as the large “University City” created during the 1940s. The University’s edifices became a reference in the development of other institutions of higher education in the Portuguese-speaking world where it also exerted a major influence on learning and literature. Coimbra offers an outstanding example of an integrated university city with a specific urban typology as well as its own ceremonial and cultural traditions that have been kept alive through the ages.
Encyclopedia Record: University of Coimbra
The University of Coimbra is a public research university in Coimbra, Portugal. First established in Lisbon in 1290, it went through a number of relocations until moving permanently to Coimbra in 1537. The university is among the oldest universities in continuous operation in the world, the oldest in Portugal, and played an influential role in the development of higher education in the Portuguese-speaking world. In 2013, UNESCO declared the university a World Heritage Site, noting its architecture, unique culture and traditions, and historical role.Additional Site Details
Area: 36.2 hectares
(iv) — Outstanding example of a type of building or landscape
(vi) — Directly associated with events or living traditions
Coordinates: 40.2078111111 , -8.425775
Image
© Alvesgaspar, CC BY-SA 3.0 Resized from original. (This derivative is under the same CC BY-SA license.)
