Portagem Square

Category: Civil Architecture > Square

District: Coimbra > Coimbra > Coimbra > Almedina

Location

Situated in the Almedina area, Largo da Portagem plays a central role in Coimbra's urban landscape. It is strategically positioned by the banks of the Mondego River and near the Santa Clara Bridge. This point in the city serves as one of the main gateways to the historic heart, establishing a vital connection between different areas of the city, starting from the left bank of the river.

A Historical Legacy

The name "Portagem" (Toll) refers to a distant past and the original function of this space. Formerly, this was the place where taxes were collected on goods arriving in the city, especially those coming from the south. For this reason, the square was a crucial control and inspection point, marking its importance in the economic and social life of ancient Coimbra and giving it the dimension of a city gateway.

Emblematic Architecture

Largo da Portagem is bordered by buildings that enrich its architectural and landscape identity. Among them, the imposing Hotel Astória stands out, a 1926 construction designed by Adães Bermudes, which became a city landmark. Equally relevant is the Bank of Portugal Building in Coimbra, also by the same architect, which contributes to the harmony and grandeur of the ensemble. In the center of the square, there is the statue of Joaquim António de Aguiar, a work by the sculptor Costa Mota (uncle), which pays homage to this local historical figure, punctuating the space with cultural significance.

The Heart of the City

Considered one of Coimbra's main squares, Largo da Portagem is a space of great dynamism and vitality. It is a constant meeting and passage point, serving as a starting point for the main pedestrian artery that extends through the city's Baixa (Downtown). Its spaciousness and the presence of the Mondego River give it a unique atmosphere, where one can feel the pulse of urban life and the confluence between Coimbra's past and present.

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