The "joanina" library in Coimbra was elected as one of the most beautiful libraries in the world. In 2013, it was considered by The Telegraph the most amazing library in the world, and now it was Travel + Leisure to include it in the top 20 libraries.
Source: Wikipedia
The Biblioteca Joanina of the University of Coimbra Alta and Sofia has a priceless historical value. It is a baroque library built in the 18th century, whose walls are covered by two stories of bookshelves in painted or gilded exotic wood. The ceiling was painted by Portuguese artist António Simões Ribeiro and Vicente Nunes. The library is a Portuguese National Monument and is one of the older monuments of the university that attracts more tourists.
Coimbra is the third-largest city in Portugal. There you can visit the University, one of the oldest in Europe with more than 800 years old, discover many Roman archeological structures and monuments, simply stroll on the river margins or take part in the intense young nightlife. The city is home to a lot of national and international students and has a major academic tradition. In 2013 the University of Coimbra building was classified by UNESCO as as World Heritage. The organization considered that Coimbra offered "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".
In Coimbra, you can stay at Hotel Quinta das Lágrimas. The Hotel Quinta das Lágrimas during centuries was a private family sanctuary. Nowadays, it is a luxury hotel with 44 rooms and 8 suites. Offering different atmospheres, at Hotel Quinta das Lágrimas you can enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurant Arcadas with dishes prepared by Chef Albano Lourenço, enjoy a walk in the beautiful gardens or relax at the Bamboo Garden Spa.
Learn more about Hotel Quinta das Lágrimas and book your fairy tale stay in Portugal.