Portuguese Statues in University of Coimbra
Welcome to my blog post about the Portuguese statues at the University of Coimbra in Portugal. Coimbra is a city in central Portugal known for its rich cultural heritage and history, and the University of Coimbra is one of its most significant landmarks. The university has a long history, dating back to the 13th century, and is home to several historic buildings, beautiful gardens, and fascinating sculptures, including those of King Joao III and other notable figures from Portuguese history.
In this post, I will share the pictures of the impressive statues of the famous personalities who walked the corridors of this great University of Coimbra.
About University of Coimbra
University of Coimbra exists from 1290! It is one of the oldest functional universities of World. It is the oldest one in Portugal and has the reputation of being the largest higher education and research institution. The university was first located in Lisbon and after several relocations it got permanently established in Coimbra in 1537. In 2013 this University of Coimbra was added to UNESCO World Heritage list. Read more: University of Coimbra.
Intersection of Art, History, and Culture: The Statues of the University of Coimbra
The University of Coimbra’s statue collection is a fascinating intersection of art, history, and culture. As you walk through the campus, you can’t help but be struck by the beauty and diversity of the statues on display.
From ancient Greek philosophers to revered Portuguese kings and other notable figures from history, the statues at the University of Coimbra represent a wide range of artistic styles and historical periods. Each sculpture tells its own unique story, reflecting the cultural values and intellectual traditions of the time it was created.
Portuguese statues – King Joao 3, King Dinis, Demosthenes
From King Dinis to Demosthenes: A Tour of Coimbra’s Most Striking Statues
While touring the campus we came across several more Portuguese statues.
Second statue is of King Dinis who founded the university in 1290. It is a beautiful and intricately crafted sculpture that pays tribute to one of the country’s most significant historical figures. King Dinis is remembered as a great leader and patron of the arts and is often credited with laying the foundation for Portugal’s golden age of exploration and discovery. The statue stands as a powerful symbol of his legacy and the enduring impact he had on the nation’s culture and history.
A reader, Chas Glenn has mentioned in his comment that the third statue is that of Demosthenes. The statue of Demosthenes at the University of Coimbra is an impressive sight to behold. Standing tall and proud in a prominent location, the sculpture commands attention with its striking form and intricate detailing. The statue depicts the legendary Greek statesman and orator in a contemplative pose.
Statue of King Joao III
The first statue is that of King João III, who based the University permanently in Coimbra. As I gazed up at the impressively sculpted statue of Joao III. The majestic figure stood tall against the vibrant blue sky, its grandeur and beauty captivating my attention.
From its lofty perch overlooking the main university square, the statue of King João III gazes steadfastly at his great center of learning, turning his back on the sweeping views of the city behind him. This revered monarch played a pivotal role in the university’s history, re-establishing it in Coimbra in 1537 and inviting renowned scholars to teach in what had once been a royal palace.
This is the view of the Library with statue of King Joao III, in front of it. Notice how he has his back towards the beautiful city view. Instead he faces his great centre of learning. King Joao III re-established the university in Coimbra in 1537 and invited learned scholars to teach in this University, what had previously been a royal palace.
King Joao III statue in Portugal
Parting Thoughts
The statues are deeply embedded in the history and culture of Coimbra itself. Many of the figures depicted in the sculptures played a significant role in the city’s development as a center of learning and culture, and their legacies continue to shape the university and the broader community to this day. It was a learning experience reading how these forces have shaped the world around us over time.
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Demosthenes – the third statue
wow… very different…
Nice!
I just want to be there! Good For U 🙂
We have old universities here at Iran too!
A very lovely blue sky as a backdrop for those statues!
Lovely statues against the blue skies
A nice Post.. It’s amazing to know that a University of 1290 functions even this date.. Thanks for sharing, Indrani!
Ohh ,the pictures are great .The statues look amazing in the blue background
I have always wanted to visit Portugal, one day. Great photos Indrani.
Somehow I have never been very fond of statues 😉 but beautiful capture 🙂
Different but beautiful statues!
Brilliant shots of three statues.
Awesome is the word.. 🙂
Beautiful statues and lovely captures!
Very different and such clear blue skies! I have a fascination for all UNESCO preserved sites. Loved these as well.
What a pleasant blue sky & magnificent statues. Loved the place. Portugal many amazing places to visit. Would like to see them in person some day :).
Thanks for sharing 🙂
Nice sculptures, having them in the University its creating a big impression.
Imagine being in such a university as a student!!!
wow!!
Wonderful statues, Amazing pics.
Beautiful pictures, both!
Good pictures
Breathtaking sculptures! Thanks for sharing these amazing archaic pieces with us.
Great statues
wow… very different…
Interesting statues – I just had to check out TexWisGirl comment about their being in order from thick to thin.
Loved that last shot, what a great view.
Such interesting statues and university! The setting is lovely.
neat view! i like the line-up of the statues – from thick, thinner, thinnest. 🙂
Instructive and inspiring statues for the students, Indrani. Namaste
Beautiful statues and lovely skies! Great captures. Enjoy your day and the weekend ahead!
Breathtaking! What a stunning view!
Wonderful statues and such lovely blue, blue skies!! We haven’t any of those in weeks here in Oregon!!! Just GRAY and more GRAY!! A great post for the day as always, Indrani!! And thank you, as always, for sharing!! I hope you have a beautiful weekend!! Enjoy!!
Lovely clicks Indrani…
xoxo, Neha