Paço das Escolas
Historic Building in Coimbra
This historic university is located in a former royal palace and remains the heart of the institution to this day, hosting traditional academic ceremonies. The Sala dos Capelos is the main ceremonial hall, named after the academic cape awarded to graduating doctoral students. It was originally an examination room adorned with dark portraits of Portugal’s kings and decorated with crimson quilt-like designs. Close by, the Sala do Exame Privado (Private Examination Room) was where graduates underwent secret examinations at night.
In addition to the ceremonial halls, the palace also offers stunning views from both sides. The Páteo das Escolas can be seen on one side, while on the other, visitors can take in the city’s cascading rooftops.
The Paço das Escolas appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Coimbra!
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Visiting Paço das Escolas
9am-7.30pm Mar-Oct, 9am-1pm & 2pm-5pm Nov-Feb
adult/child incl Biblioteca Joanina, Capela de São Miguel & Museu da Ciência €12.50/free, without Biblioteca €7/free
Nearby Attractions
- Torre da Universidade (0.1) km
Historic Building and Tower in Coimbra - Biblioteca Joanina (0.1) km
Historic Building and Library in Coimbra - Museu Nacional de Machado de Castro (0.2) km
Museum, Historic Building and Historic Site in Coimbra - Sé Velha de Coimbra (0.2) km
Cathedral in Coimbra - Jardim Botânico (Coimbra) (0.2) km
Gardens in Coimbra - University of Coimbra (0.2) km
Historic Site in Coimbra - Sé Nova de Coimbra (New Cathedral of Coimbra) (0.2) km
Cathedral in Coimbra - Porta de Barbacã & Torre de Almedina (0.3) km
City Gate and Tower in Coimbra - Largo da Portagem (Toll Square) (0.3) km
Square in Coimbra - Igreja São Bartolomeu (0.3) km
Church in Coimbra
