Cernache - Coimbra

From Cernache continue towards Coimbra.

The primitive tomb of Queen Elizabeth of Portugal can be seen in the Monastery of Santa-Clara-a-Nova. The Queen is portrayed wearing symbols of a pilgrimage to Santiago.

Continuing towards the city centre, cross the river towards the Church of S. Tiago (St James). Nearby you can see the Almedina Arch and the walled city centre.

In the Church of Santa Cruz (National Pantheon) you will find the tombs of the first two Kings of Portugal. But the city itself deserves an in-depth visit. Rua da Sofia and the University of Coimbra are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, as is the Machado de Castro National Museum, which houses the treasure of the Holy Queen.

In the Old Cathedral, the tomb of D. Egas Fafes, Bishop of Coimbra is also worthy of a mention. Having been appointed Archbishop of Compostela, he died in Montpellier (1268), when he was travelling to Compostela to take up the position.

Fado and the Song of Coimbra have always had a very intimate connection with the city and its university.