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University Tower

Category: Military Architecture > Tower

District: Coimbra > Coimbra > Coimbra > Alta

Location

The University Tower rises distinctly in the Upper part of Coimbra, an elevated point offering a unique perspective on the urban landscape. It is located at the heart of the historic Paço das Escolas (School Palace), the epicenter of the University of Coimbra, an environment that breathes centuries of history and academic life. Its prominent position makes it an easily recognizable landmark in the city's silhouette, dominating the surrounding area.

The Legacy of a Construction

Built between 1728 and 1733, the University Tower is an 18th-century structure that has become one of Coimbra's most recognizable symbols. Its origin dates back to the period when the University settled in the Paço de D. João III, feeling the imperative need for a clock to establish clear order in academic life. Thus, this tower was conceived not only as an architectural element but as the temporal regulator of university daily life, marking the rhythms of study and student activities.

"The Goat": Guardian of Traditions

The bells of the University Tower are popularly known by the nickname "A Cabra" (The Goat), a name that evokes one of Coimbra's deepest academic traditions. These bells served to announce the start of study hours, chiming on the eves of class days. For students attending the university for the first time, the sound of "A Cabra" also signaled an ancient rule, imposing that one could not remain on the street after its ringing. This aspect underscores the tower's role as a guardian of discipline and the secular rites that shaped generations of academics.

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

Coordinates DD: 40.207786933333, -8.4264759333333
Coordinates DMS: 40°12'28.0"N 08°25'35.3"W

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