Physics Museum (Science Museum of the University of Coimbra)

Category: Civil Architecture > Museum

District: Coimbra > Coimbra > Coimbra > Alta

Location

The Physics Museum is located in the Alta de Coimbra area, an area of great historical and academic relevance in the city. It is integrated into the complex of the former Colégio de Jesus (Jesus College), forming part of the University's heritage. This location places it in the heart of the upper city, in an area known for its connection to university life and knowledge.

An Eighteenth-Century Legacy

The origins of this museum date back to 1772, a period marked by important reforms at the University of Coimbra promoted by the Marquis of Pombal. The Experimental Physics Cabinet was then created, and the museum still occupies the rooms originally designated for it in the Colégio de Jesus. Visiting this space allows one to experience the atmosphere of a physics laboratory as it existed in the second half of the 18th century, offering a unique perspective on the history of experimental science.

Collections of Inestimable Value

The museum houses a rich scientific collection, comprising a collection of physics instruments from the 18th and 19th centuries. This collection is considered one of the most remarkable and rare worldwide. The 18th-century instruments, in particular, are often seen as authentic works of art, in addition to their scientific and didactic value. In total, there are over three thousand objects that document the development of experimental physics throughout these eras.

European Historic Site

The recognition of this site's importance for the history of physics transcends borders. The former Experimental Physics Cabinet of the University of Coimbra, whose essence the museum preserves, was distinguished by the European Physical Society (EPS) with the status of a European Historic Site. This honor underscores the fundamental role this cabinet played in the teaching and practice of physics, marking its place in the history of European science.

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