Arch of Almedina

Category: Military Architecture > Arch

District: Coimbra > Coimbra > Coimbra > Almedina

Location

The Almedina Arch is located in the city of Coimbra, in the heart of its historic zone. This ancient portal marked the main entrance to the upper city, once protected by imposing medieval walls. It is a central point that still serves today as a passage to the oldest and steepest streets, leading those who cross it to the city's elevated historic center.

History and Symbolism

The history of the Almedina Arch dates back to distant times, reflecting Coimbra's rich heritage. Its name, "Almedina", of Arabic origin, evokes the period of Islamic rule in the region, meaning "the city". Originally a 12th-century defensive gate, it was over the centuries a crucial element of the urban wall that protected the locality. The arch served not only as a barrier against invaders but also as a control point for commercial activities and the movement of people accessing the city.

Considered a National Monument, this portal underwent several remodels, notably during the reign of D. Dinis and, later, at the beginning of the 16th century, by determination of D. Manuel I. Its imposing presence highlights the strategic importance it held as the main access to intramural Coimbra, both civil and military.

Architectural Features

The Almedina Arch presents a remarkable fusion of styles, where one can observe Gothic influence alongside traces of Arab architecture. Its most distinctive feature is the horseshoe arch, slightly pointed, which invites passage. Above the arch, an imposing turret rises, which once was part of the city's defensive system, giving the ensemble a visual robustness. Inside, a decorative frieze displays bas-reliefs of the Virgin and Child, flanked by heraldic elements, adding a touch of artistic detail to this millennial construction.

Before reaching the Almedina Arch itself, one finds the Barbacã Arch. This structure, built in the 16th century with a pointed arch, is a more recent element that precedes the main gate, forming part of a second defensive line, reinforcing the perimeter of old Coimbra.

A Door to the Past

Crossing the Almedina Arch is embarking on a journey through time. This portal functions as a threshold between the more contemporary Coimbra and its medieval face. After passing the arch, the path ascends through narrow and steep streets, where the cobbled streets and traditional houses tell stories from other centuries. The ascent offers an authentic perspective of the city's historical experience, culminating in altitudes that once represented Coimbra's power and knowledge.

License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt