The National Museum Machado de Castro features many historical and antique objects originating from the churches and convents of Coimbra...
Some of the best life experiences happen in some of the unlikeliest of places. This is most certainly true of...
Wouldn’t it be a luxury to escape to a place that captures the serenity and charm of an old-world village,...
Who would guess that Portugal has some of the most interesting and awe-inspiring spaces devoted to books? Porto is home to the most beautiful bookstore in the world, Livraria Lello. But, the University of Coimbra in Central Portugal is the location for one of the world’s grandest and unique libraries, the Biblioteca Joanina.
Our lovely, personable and knowledgeable guide for the trip, Silvia Aires from Turismo Centro de Portugal, set our agenda to start at the University of Coimbra. This also happens to be the highest point in the city. This hilltop positioning is no accident. Not only is height an excellent vantage point to see all of Coimbra and the River Mondego, but it is also a symbolic reference to the importance knowledge and education is placed in the heritage and pride of the Portuguese people.
In honor of All Saints’ Day (1 November), Portugal Confidential is checking out cemeteries across the country. Whether you consider cemeteries sacred or macabre, these bone yards are interesting, historically cool, sometimes significant, and often, architecturally amazing.