Quinta das Lágrimas is a historic estate and garden on the edge of Coimbra, Portugal, in the Coimbra District. Its gardens are also known as the Quinta das Lágrimas Gardens, and the place is tied to one of the best-known love stories in Portuguese history, that of Pedro and Inês de Castro.
What to expect
The estate is laid out as a set of historic gardens, with botanical plantings that give the walks a green and shaded character. It suits a slow, unhurried visit rather than a checklist of sights. Many visitors come for the atmosphere as much as for particular features, and the grounds reward walking at your own pace.
The legend
The name points to the story of Pedro and Inês de Castro, and the gardens are known for their romantic legends. Visitors interested in the tale will find it woven into the place itself, so it is worth reading a little about the story before you go, which adds meaning to a walk through the grounds.
Planning your visit
- Address: Rua António Augusto Gonçalves, 3041-901 Coimbra, Portugal
- Phone: +351 239 802 380
- Setting: an estate within the city of Coimbra, a university town on the Mondego River
Because the gardens are part of Coimbra, you can combine a visit here with time in the city centre and its old streets. Calling ahead by phone is a sensible step before you travel, as the contact number above is the most direct way to check current arrangements for your visit.
