2. INTRODUCTION
Coimbra is a city in Portugal. Although it
served as the nation's capital during the High
Middle Ages, it is better known for its
university, the University of Coimbra, which
is one of the oldest in Europe and the oldest
academic institution in the Portuguese
speaking world.
3. QUEIMA DAS FITAS
This tradition dates back to the 50s of the XIX
century .The first parties linked to the Burning of
the Ribbons took place in 1901. Nowadays, it
takes place in May, when University students
organize a parade from University to Downtown.
The cars are decorated with colours of each
College. Students drink and enjoy themselves a lot.
4. SERENATA MONUMENTAL
Also known as Serenata Monumental, it
is the event that marks the beginning of
Queima das Fitas. It is one of the
highlights in which University Students
sing Fado, taking place in Sé Velha at
midnight. The Serenade has a special
meaning for students, because it
symbolizes the end of studies for some
and the beginning for others.
Thousands of students enjoy the
Serenata, dominating silence in the
audience during the singing of fado.
5. FADO DE COIMBRA
It is the music of the University students.
It is performed with the traditional
Guitarra created by Artur Paredes, and
usually accompanied by a classic acoustic
guitar and male voices..
The University of Coimbra has an
important Fado section where students can
learn how to play and sing
