Palace of Schools

The monumental complex of Paço das Escolas, a fundamental part of the University of Coimbra, Alta e Sofia, has undergone a series of very significant interventions in its buildings. These interventions, which have already been completed, are underway or are yet to begin, aim to preserve, safeguard and benefit the built heritage and are governed by the principles of reversibility and minimal intervention, thus guaranteeing the integrity and authenticity of the Property.

Among the recent initiatives, in a first phase that will soon be completed with the work on the Gerais building, these interventions focus essentially on the built heritage, working to solve its problems and correct its pathologies and dissonances. The second phase, which is also underway, will focus mainly on the integrated heritage, thus guaranteeing the conservation and safeguarding of the heritage as a whole.

Initiative

The HVAC system installed in the long-decommissioned Gerais building proved to be inefficient and costly from the outset. With the aim of improving the energy performance and thermal comfort of this space, particularly in the classrooms and faculty offices of the Faculty of Law, the University of Coimbra decided to go ahead with the renovation of the HVAC system.

In total, this contract will make it possible to air-condition ten offices on floor 2, eight classrooms (including the reading room) on floor 1, and finally one classroom on floor 0. In the offices, the current oil heaters will be replaced by individual air conditioning systems. In the classrooms, where electric heating equipment (radiators or accumulators) is also used, a new HVAC system will be implemented, which will make it possible to overcome the demands imposed by the building, whose rooms have high ceilings and access only from the ambulatory, and by exposure to the weather, since the cloister is an open space and subject to temperature fluctuations.

In addition to renovating the HVAC system, conservation and restoration work is planned in some of the classrooms due to their worrying state of repair. It should also be noted that this intervention will have little impact on the built heritage, as it is planned to use the infrastructure (pipes) of the current HVAC system.

With this contract, the University of Coimbra intends to reaffirm its commitment to improving the energy efficiency and conditions of enjoyment of listed buildings and to conserving and safeguarding its architectural heritage.

Promoter

University of Coimbra

Initiative:

As part of a broad strategy for the Paço das Escolas monument complex, the University of Coimbra has begun a new phase of interventions, now focused on integrated heritage, having decided to start with the Weapons Room (including the cubelo room), the Yellows Room, and the Blue Room, given the fragile state of conservation of these spaces.

With the completion of the exterior works, which resolved most of the problems affecting the built heritage (e.g., rainwater infiltration and humidity), it became a priority to work on the interior of these spaces.

This involved conservation and restoration work, carried out by specialized technicians, using materials and techniques that were the same or similar to those originally used in the areas undergoing intervention.

Among the actions carried out, we can mention, for example, the conservation and restoration of the plaster on the walls (including paintings) or the conservation of the structural woodwork of the vaulted ceiling for the Weapons Room; conservation and restoration of the wooden floor and movable heritage (furniture, paintings, and chandelier) for the Yellow Room; conservation and restoration of the walls (removal of fabrics, restoration of plasterwork, support structure and fabric finishing, replacement of fabrics) and the polychrome vaulted ceiling in the Blue Room. This initiative was concluded in 2024.

Promoter: University of Coimbra

Value: €115,565.20 excluding VAT

Initiative

This initiative on the Joanina Library, completed in 2024, focused on rehabilitating the roofs and façades, with the exception of the main façade, which was repaired in 2017 as part of the Conservation of the Joanina Library Portal project.

The following problems were identified on the roofs of the Joanine Library: fractured ceramic tiles, displaced and sometimes replaced by others with different dimensions; disappearance of the glaze from the tiles, making them more porous and susceptible to infiltration and microbiological colonization (algae and fungi).

As for the façades, it was possible to see traces of occasional cracking in the sketch layer and degradation of the paint; the presence of microbiological colonization in the limestone architectural elements (cornices, pilasters and door frames); disintegration of the mortar joints; cracking due to shrinkage and detachment of the paint on the wooden window frames, including signs of oxidation in the case of the windows with glazed iron profiles.

In order to ensure the preservation of this historic building and its invaluable integrated heritage, with special emphasis on the vast collection of books, various rehabilitation actions were carried out.

As far as the roofs are concerned, although the wooden structure is in a satisfactory state of repair, several structural reinforcements were carried out, as well as general rehabilitation work. As for the façades, the plaster was restored, replacing the sketch plaster with one more compatible with stone masonry walls.

Specific treatments were applied to the stone architectural elements, including the use of herbicides and biocides, followed by manual cleaning. Regarding the window frames, the deteriorated or deformed elements were replaced, using wood of the same type and favoring, whenever possible, the use of old wood, in order to ensure harmony with the original structure.

Promoter

University of Coimbra

Value

1,062,174.75€ excluding VAT

Initiative

Carried out as part of the contract to renovate the roofs and façades of the Sala dos Capelos and the Palácio Real, completed in 2023, this initiative already planned - and duly approved by the Heritage Authority (DGPC/DRCC at the time) - in the license for the overall project to renovate the roofs and façades of the Sala dos Capelos and the Paço Real, promoted by the University of Coimbra in 2016. Due to its size and complexity, the University decided to phase this contract and proceed with individual processes.

As part of this contract, the work focused on rehabilitating the roofs of the Sala dos Capelos and the Palácio Real, as well as the access corridor to the panoramic balcony and the turrets. In addition to solving some of the causes of the building's deterioration - for example, the infiltrations caused by the poor state of conservation of the ceramic tiles, which were largely cracked or displaced - this work also included structural reinforcement of the Capelos roof, thus improving the stability and protection of the extrados of its polychrome coffered ceiling. Considering the high heritage sensitivity of this complex, a temporary structure (roof) was installed over the Capelos during the work, protecting it from the weather.

Work was also carried out on the north and east façades of the Sala dos Capelos and the Royal Palace, including the turrets. In this case, the restoration of the plaster surfaces and stone elements was supplemented by the rehabilitation or, in cases identified at the design stage, replacement of the wooden window frames with others with an identical stereotomy, metal guards and railings. This work also extended to the south façade of Via Latina.

This contract also included conservation and restoration work on architectural elements, such as merlons, cornices and other stone elements, as well as occasional maintenance work on the University Tower and Via Latina.

As intended, the objectives set during the project phase were achieved, resulting in a general improvement in the state of conservation of the Sala dos Capelos and the Royal Palace, thus guaranteeing the longevity of the building, as well as the comfort conditions that these spaces offer their users.

Promoter

University of Coimbra

Value

1.463.481,25€ excluding VAT

Initiative:

In 2021, the University of Coimbra carried out work to ensure accessibility to the Colégio de S. Pedro and to install benches in the School Courtyard. This work aims to meet functional and inclusion needs, ensuring mobility for all visitors and promoting a more comfortable enjoyment of the space.

This intervention included the redesign of the main entrance, whose configuration made access impossible for people with reduced mobility. The existing steps were therefore removed and rebuilt, widening and leveling the landing, which allowed for the installation of a ramp with characteristics similar to the one in the Joanina Library. The new staircase was built using stone identical to the original, respectfully maintaining the design and architectural style of the building. An elevator was also installed, properly integrated into the structure of the college, ensuring access between floors without compromising the integrity of the existing construction elements.

In addition, and in harmony with the recent renovation of the Pátio das Escolas, outdoor benches were installed for visitors to rest and relax. The benches, made of limestone similar to that of the adjacent walkways, were placed next to the façade of the Colégio de S. Pedro, taking advantage of the shade provided by the trees, as well as next to the entrance to the Joanina Library. This solution sought to combine comfort, integration into the landscape, and respect for the heritage and architectural setting of the university space.

Developer: University of Coimbra.

Value: €197,000.00 excluding VAT.

Initiative

The work carried out as part of the Rehabilitation of the Roofs and Façades of the Colégio de S. Pedro was already planned - and duly approved by the Heritage Authority (at the time DGPC/DRCC) - in the Licensing of the overall project for the Recovery of the Roofs and Façades of the Sala dos Capelos and Paço Real, promoted by the University of Coimbra in 2016. Due to its size and complexity, the University decided to phase this contract and proceed with individual processes.

As far as the roofs are concerned, the work carried out included replacing the ceramic tiles due to their wear and cracks, as they favored infiltration and the growth of microbiological organisms (algae and fungi). The roof's wooden structure was reinforced using metal ties and waterproof and microporous blankets were applied to improve waterproofing and ventilation. In addition, the screed was leveled on the lightweight slab structure. Preventive treatment of the wood against fire and insects ensured the durability of the intervention.

On the façades, the work focused on removing degraded plaster and applying a new hydraulic and hydrated lime-based mortar, as well as cleaning and sealing stonework joints with the application of water repellents. Window frames were rehabilitated or replaced, including the installation of double glazing to improve thermal performance. Elements such as the intrados of the openings were restored with compatible mortars, and the metal railings were repaired and painted with anti-corrosion paint.

This work reinforced the physical integrity of the building, guaranteeing the preservation of its architectural and heritage features. It has also significantly improved the watertightness, thermal comfort and durability of the building.

Promoter

University of Coimbra

Value

€829,117.00 excluding VAT

Initiative

The work to be carried out as part of the contract for the Conservation of the Roofs and Facades of the Gerais and the Museum of Sacred Art, which is currently underway, was already planned - and duly approved by the Heritage Authority (at the time DGPC/DRCC) - in the Licensing of the overall project for the Recovery of the Roofs and Facades of the Sala dos Capelos and Paço Real, promoted by the University of Coimbra in 2016. Due to its size and complexity, the University decided to phase this contract and proceed with individual processes.

Initially, this License only included the buildings of the Gerais (FDUC) and the Museum of Sacred Art, as well as the ruins of the Pátio das Escolas. However, the subsequent Addendum added the Chapel of St. Michael, the University Tower and some areas of the aforementioned buildings that were initially excluded (for example, the floors of the ambulatory of the Cloister of the Generals).

The main problems to be solved include the displacement and fracturing of ceramic tiles on the roofs; the disappearance of the glaze from the tiles, which increases their permeability; and microbiological colonization, such as algae and fungi. It is worth highlighting the installation of a temporary roof over the entire built-up area affected by the contract.

For the façades, there are occasional cracks in the plaster layer; previous applications of cement mortar; detachments in the wood of the window frames; deterioration of architectural and decorative elements, which can be seen in the columns or arches, as well as in the tile panel of the Cloister of the Gerais.

This contract also includes preparatory work for the renovation of the Gerais' HVAC system, which has long been deactivated. This system will soon be replaced as part of the renovation of the HVAC system in the Gerais, Paço das Escolas of the University of Coimbra.

In the current state of the work, in addition to correcting the problems and their pathologies, it is important to mention the discovery of archaeological remains related to the various phases of the Gerais, with special emphasis on the Manueline span, an architectural element of indisputable historical and artistic value.

Promoter

University of Coimbra

Value

2.335.694,27€ excluding VAT

Initiative

Based on the work of a multidisciplinary team, including biologists, archaeologists, geologists and photographers, the Porta Férrea underwent a conservation project in 2015 that sought to consolidate and clean the set, following the principles of minimal intervention.

Headline

The Joanine Library, built in the 18th century, is one of the most emblematic buildings of the University of Coimbra. Its main gate, which is a element of great importance, presented several problems.

Therefore, in 2012-2013, a careful intervention of restoration was caried out in order to ensure the durability and functionality of the main gate.

Works

The conservation and restore works of Minerva Stairs took place during the year of 2011.

The developed works focused particularly on the: treatment, cleansing and protection of the stone surfaces; realignment of the stair steps; recovery of fences, reclosing of open joints; re-establishment of volumes and recovery of damaged plaster through the use of building sand mortar with incorporated colour.
The rainwater collection system was reformulated as planned.

Technical Supervisors/Coordinators

Conservation and restoration: Fernando Marques, Raquel Misarela, Vítor Conceição
Archaelogy: Sónia Filipe

Initiative

The rehabilitation of the Palace of Schools, which happened between 2005 and 2011, sought to put in evidence the uniqueness of the University Palace, ensuring not only the reading of the historical memory of the building itself, but also its permanent contemporaneity as the symbolic centre of the University.

The proposed repavement of the Palace, which first of all safeguarded the existing underground archaeological heritage, ensured and even reinforced the institutional scale that is inherent to it, but at the same time gave it a more welcoming and comfortable character.

Initiative

The intervention of conservation and restoration of the Tower of the University of Coimbra aimed the preservation of an architectural element of symbolic meaning not only for the University but also for the city, through the strong physical presence it has in the landscape and for its no less important socio-cultural meaning.

During the works, from March 2010 to August 2010, several initiatives of public awareness took place, in particular an educational building site and visits to the tower, of general public, degrees and master degrees of particular themes.

The pedagogical yard consisted of a series of information panels mounted on the building site fence for educational purposes. Monthly reports in three languages explained the development of the work, and another series of panels provided information on the University, the UNESCO Application Office and the sponsors.

During the visits, that took place with the undergoing works, the restoration team was available to answer the public questions in a simple but insightful way.

Simultaneously, and having in mind the sustainability of the interventions in the cultural heritage, the intervention intended to requalify the visits to the Tower, that integrates now the tour to the Pátio das Escolas.

Technical Supervisors/Coordinators

Conservation and restoration: Fernando Marques
Architecture: Victor Mestre
Installation of electrical, telecommunications and safety equipment: Luís Filipe Ribeiro
Archaelogy: Sónia Filipe, Lília Basílio, Gina Dias, Dryas Arqueologia, Lda.
Coordination of safety system: Luís Monsanto
Technical Assistance: In Situ, Conservação de bens culturais, Lda.
Contractor: Augusto Oliveira Ferreira &CA, Lda.