• University of Coimbra - Count Raczinski wrote about this library in “Les Arts au Portugal” in the following terms:

it is the most beautiful, most richly decorated library that I have ever seen

In fact, the beautiful and noble interior of this sumptuous space, built between 1717 and 1728, clearly expresses the generous spirit of its founding patron. Visitors are welcomed by the king’s coat of arms above the great portico at the entrance.

Here, students and researchers may consult more than 300 thousand volumes dating from the 16th to the late 18th century, kept in the archives that cover three floors of the building.

Inside the library, the walls are covered with solid bookshelves made of exotic woods, composed of two sections, separated by a small balcony supported on columns. The painting and gilding of this wood was the work of Manuel da Silva. The main floor is divided into three rooms separated by arches that are identical to the one in the outer doorway, displaying the insignia of the old University faculties. The ceilings were painted with a trompe l´oeil effect by António Simões Ribeiro and Vicente Nunes, creating a false perspective and giving the illusion of a greater height.
On one of the walls at the back of the room, there is a large portrait of the founder, Dom João V, dated 1730.

• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Private tour
• Bottled water
• Driver/escort
• Transport by private vehicle

• Food and drinks
• Lunch
• Gratuities

Join us on a full-day exploration of Portugal’s grandest mountain range, the Serra da Estrela. We’ll journey to the base of the Serra da Estrela, presenting you with awe-inspiring views and stunning landscapes. We’ll observe large groups of sheep grazing at pasture - the same sheep that provide milk for the renowned Queijo da Serra cheese, hailed by many as the world’s finest. Goat herds are a common sight too, these creatures play a crucial role in our local cuisine. You may also spot the stalwart Serra da Estrela shepherd dogs, recognized for their strength, beauty, and adaptation to the challenging weather at Serra da Estrela. We also plan to visit Portugal’s highest residential area, the quaint village of Sabugueiro. Following this, we’ll ascend Portugal’s mainland pinnacle, ‘the Tower’. Our descent includes a pitstop at ‘Santa’, a statuesque figure crafted from natural rock on an elevated mountain crag. Finally, we’ll travel down to Covilhã and begin our journey back to Lisbon.

• Children must be accompanied by an adult
• Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.