The Façade of the Joanine Library

The Joanine Library is one of the most emblematic buildings of the University of Coimbra and one of the most sumptuous libraries in Europe. Originally called the Library House, it owes its name to King John V, who had it built in 1717 at the University's request. Known as the great patron of the sciences and the arts, this library is a remarkable testimony to the King's cultural policy. It was built in just 11 years and functioned as a library until the mid-20th century. It contains 56,000 books from the 15th to the 18th century.

The noble portal contrasts with the stripped case of the rest of the building. Raised like a triumphal arch and crowned by the imposing royal coat-of-arms, it marks the King's investment in the construction and initiates the speech of praise for the monarch, which takes place inside. An initial inscription indicates that the city is crowned by knowledge: "This is the seat that Coimbra Augusta gave to books, so that the library may crown it". The brass plaque challenges students to use books as weapons to attain knowledge. The library is presented as a fortress of wisdom to be conquered. A conquest that requires students to follow a path that starts from this gateway inwards.

For conservation reasons, the library can be accessed from the side of the building. However, in relation to the Main Floor, we suggest that, before entering, you start by viewing this portal, through which you previously accessed, since it is the first element of a greater symbolic meaning of this architectural space.