Biblioteca Joanina

Description

Biblioteca Joanina or the Joanina Library at the University of Coimbra is one of the complex’s most visited buildings and is one of the grandest of its kind in the world. The Baroque library was built in the 18th century on orders of King João V. The extravagant library is not just frequented by university students; it also attracts visitors from all over the world; for its study tables made from exotic woods, attractive two-storey wooden bookshelves, elaborately painted ceilings and the other Baroque elements that make up its rich interior. Visitors to the popular attraction will also come across over 250,000 books, including ones on science, law, theology, medicine, history, geography and so on. Since visitors are only admitted into the library in small numbers on a timetable, it is best to book a visit a couple of days in advance.  

Ticket Price

€3.50

Opening Hour

Hours vary depending on the month

Recommended Visit Duration

Around 1 hour or more

Suitable For

Adults, senior visitors, young adults, families, children

Must See

The incredible interior, including the frescoed ceilings and the bookshelves  

Prayer Facilities

Muslims visiting the Biblioteca Joanina will not be able to find prayer facilities at the attraction. The city of Coimbra is however home to one known mosque; Mesquita de Coimbra which is located on Rua Bernardo Santareno. Muslim tourists can therefore ask staff at the library direct them to this mosque when needed.  

Halal Food

While there are no known Halal restaurants in the city of Comibra, due to its small Muslim population, there may be at least one Halal eatery in the city. Muslim tourists can make inquiries regarding this at the local mosque, or they can dine on suitable seafood and vegetarian dishes at local non-Halal restaurants.