If you’re in Coimbra in the month of July, get ready for a true journey back in time. Held annually in the heart of Coimbra’s historic upper town, this celebration transports thousands of visitors to the age of kings, troubadours, and knights. The Medieval Fair of Coimbra began in 1992, making it the oldest modern medieval fair in the country. Since then, it has grown year after year. Coimbra – a city of knowledge and tradition – seeks to bring its own history to life through faithful recreations of medieval customs, clothing, food, and settings. The main stage of the fair is Largo da Sé Velha, one of the most authentic and best-preserved medieval areas in Portugal. The surrounding streets, such as Quebra Costas, Pátio do Castilho, Arco de Almedina, and Rua Borges Carneiro, are transformed into a lively marketplace filled with the scent of spices, the clinking of iron in blacksmiths’ forges, the cheerful sound of bagpipes, and the voices of wandering troubadours. For three days, the city fully immerses itself in the medieval era. Coimbra’s historic streets become a setting worthy of kings and knights, offering a unique atmosphere that invites locals and visitors alike to step back in time. The programme usually includes special moments such as themed banquets inspired by ancient recipes, markets featuring local crafts and traditional products, and street performances that bring to life the trades and daily experiences of the Middle Ages. As you wander through the lively streets, you’ll encounter iconic medieval figures – court jesters, monks, blacksmiths, or traveling merchants – all adding to the vibrant atmosphere. Between arches, staircases, and medieval squares, live music, historical dances, craft demonstrations, and surprising theatrical performances fill Coimbra with medieval magic. The 2025 edition marks the fair’s 30th anniversary and evokes a period when Coimbra was the capital of the kingdom. It commemorates 700 years since Queen Isabel’s pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela, the death of King Dinis, and 400 years since the canonization of Coimbra’s patron saint. The Medieval Fair of Coimbra is a sensory journey into the past, created with care, passion, and dedication, where students, residents, artisans, cultural associations, and visitors come together to celebrate the city’s tangible and intangible heritage in a setting that feels frozen in time. With free entry to most activities, it’s an inclusive and educational experience for all ages.
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