Wednesday, June 3, 2026 – Coimbra, Portugal

Where in the World Are We?

We are in Coimbra, Portugal.

Today’s Schedule

Painted Tiles

We started the day learning about Coimbra’s treasured tradition of hand-painted tiles.

We were taken through the step-by-step process of making hand-painted ceramics. From mixing the clay dust, pouring the mixture into molds or pressing it in a press, to removing and cleaning the clay from the molds, to firing the ceramics in the oven, to painting the ceramics, to a second firing, and to quality control at each step of the process.

Old City

We took a local walking tour of Coimbra’s old city to see its narrow, colorful streets, buildings, and churches.

Coimbra Fado

We enjoyed a performance of the unique, local style of fado…more likely devoted to revolutionary student ideals than lost love.

Coimbra fado is a haunting, unique style of traditional Portuguese music which originates from nightly serenades by university students in the cobbled streets of Coimbra. Intricate guitar playing and passionate voices penetrate the hearts and souls of the audience even if they do not understand a word of Portuguese.

Afternoon Lunch and sightseeing.

The afternoon included lunch and exploring more of the old city.