The Escadas do Quebra Costas are much more than a mere staircase. We are talking about a historical point of great symbolism that connects the famous Arco da Almedina and the Largo da Sé-Velha.
This long staircase, an interesting route leading local and visitors from the University to the historical city centre or vice versa, is an attractionthat dazzles by itself. The stairs are part of the old castle and medieval wall of Coimbra, origi- nally built in the 12th century.
Besides the stairs, there are few other traces of Coimbra’s medieval times nowadays. However, a handful of important monuments like the “Torre do Anto” or the “Porta da Barbacã” still remain.
If you want to get to know Coimbra, then it’s worth to go up or down the Quebra Costas, especially during the school year when students and their black capes make the experience feel even more special.
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