Coimbra is guest municipality of BTL 2024

The Bolsa de Turismo de Lisboa (BTL), [ Lisbon Tourism Fair], is currently underway until the 3rd of March, with the presence of the University of Coimbra (UC). This year, Coimbra is the designated guest municipality at the largest and most diversified showcase of tourism offerings in Portugal and Portuguese-speaking countries, and the UC has accepted the invitation of Coimbra City Council (CMC) to join as a partner.

During the inauguration of the Coimbra stand, Alfredo Dias, UC's Vice-Rector for Heritage, Facilities, and Tourism, expressed the profound historical connection between the city of Coimbra and the University of Coimbra throughout the centuries, highlighting their common and precious heritage recognised by humanity.

Dias further highlighted the University's commitment to excellence in its various missions, including tourism. He stated that the UC always strives to "do its best and be a benchmark", a "commitment that we intend to showcase at this year's BTL".

According to Anabela Freitas, Vice-President of Turismo Centro de Portugal, Coimbra is an important gateway for tourists, offering a rich blend of historical, cultural, and environmental heritage ingrained in our collective memory.

The Mayor of Coimbra, José Manuel Silva, said that "the Italians say that Coimbra is the Portuguese Florence". He highlighted Coimbra's unique tradition, academic life, creativity, culture, heritage and innovation, which the city seamlessly blends in a truly unique way.

During the opening ceremony, there was a common sentiment among the representatives encouraging visitors to explore Coimbra. The UC Vice-Rector extended a warm invitation: "I would like to invite you to come and see Coimbra, to visit our University, whether as students, guests, or in any way you wish. We'll do our best to welcome you."

Coimbra's presence at BTL extends beyond the University, involving the participation of the Bissaya Barreto Foundation and several companies committed to promoting the city on both national and international stages. Aligned with the city's current slogan, 'Coimbra, the right place to be,' the presence at BTL aims to emphasize that Coimbra is also the right place to visit.

All in all, the participation of the University of Coimbra and of the city itself in the BTL reflects a concerted effort to showcase and celebrate the rich cultural and ‘historical tapestry’ that makes Coimbra such an amazing tourist destination.