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Meridians of the Future – The Coimbra Imperial Students’ Hall (1945–1965)
Convento de São Francisco
The exhibition ‘Meridians of the Future’ aims to highlight the importance of the Coimbra branch of the Casa dos Estudantes do Império, which operated in the city between 1945 and 1965. Although financially dependent on its Lisbon headquarters, the Coimbra branch had its own distinctive characteristics and welcomed a significant number of students from the then colonies, some of whom played a key role in cultural production and, later, in the political activism that led to independence. We shall seek to highlight the cultural and sporting activities organised at the Casa or by its members; the way in which African identities were taking shape at the time; the relationship between the Coimbra branch of the CEI and other spaces and organisations in the city; the persecution and political surveillance of some of its members; and the unique way in which the Casa and its members contributed to the politicisation of a changing student community.
06.08 - 18.10.2026
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A ‘luggage body’ in the imagined library, with Ondjaki – Meridians of the Future Exhibition
Convento de São Francisco
What is a library, and how might one imagine a library based on the body?
What struggles does this body embody, and how are they reflected in the books she writes or the books she reads?
Drawing on Beatriz Nascimento’s concept of the ‘body-baggage’, as well as Sónia Vaz Borges’s idea of ‘walking archives’, the researcher and artist Raquel Lima is leading four sessions to bring the library of the exhibition #Meridianos de Futuro" to life, inviting intellectuals to discuss a book, a thought or a journey associated with the Casa dos Estudantes do Império in Coimbra. The aim of these meetings is for the conversation to address not only knowledge printed in a fixed format, but also to reflect on the knowledge carried within bodies and experiences.
23.09.2026
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⏭️ Next year 2027
Queima das Fitas
In May, the university city of Coimbra will host the iconic university celebration known as the Queima das Fitas.
An exceptional opportunity to visit this student city and experience a unique tradition. In Coimbra, of course!
May 2027
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Coimbra Book Fair
The 48th edition of the Coimbra Book Fair, which takes place in June at Manuel Braga Park, will host 60 stands and over 100 renowned publishers and representatives. The programme includes talks, debates, book launches and events for children and families.
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