The Joanina Library in Coimbra is a magnificent Baroque library located within the University of Coimbra, one of the oldest universities in Europe, founded in 1290. Built between 1717 and 1728 during the reign of King João V, it’s considered one of the most beautiful and lavish libraries in the world.
The library’s interior is a feast for the eyes, featuring three grand rooms adorned with exquisite gilded woodwork, intricate frescoed ceilings, and elaborate decorative motifs. Its polished exotic wood shelves are filled with over 60,000 leather-bound volumes, primarily from the 16th to 18th centuries, covering topics like medicine, law, theology, and philosophy.
An interesting and quirky feature of the library is its resident colony of bats, which help preserve the valuable books by eating insects that could damage them. Because of this, silk covers are draped over the tables at night to protect them from bat droppings.
Visiting the Joanina Library is like stepping back in time to an era of scholarly grandeur. It’s located near the Royal Palace and the University’s Tower, making it a perfect stop on a tour of Coimbra’s historic hilltop campus. The library is usually included in the University’s general ticket, which provides access to several notable sites. It’s a must-see for anyone fascinated by history, architecture, or simply seeking an unforgettable, almost magical experience.
Visit Notes
The library can be visited with a timed ticket. It’s a very impressive space that is worth the visit, even if you can’t take pictures. You are given a specific amount of time in each space and there are information sheets in multiple languages which you can read for more information.
Don’t let the pictures below fool you, those are just the initial library floor, the only place you’re allowed to take photos. The Noble Floor of the library is gorgeous. See the official website for pictures of that area.
Photography is prohibited on the Joanina Library Noble Floor
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Coimbra
Coimbra is a charming and historic city located in central Portugal, known for its rich cultural heritage, prestigious university, and picturesque setting. If you’re considering visiting Coimbra, get ready to immerse yourself in a blend of medieval architecture, vibrant student life, and a vibrant local culture. One of the highlights of Coimbra is its renowned…
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