On the road again

Had a fabulous day yesturday driving from Porto to Lisbon, Portugal capital. We had 3 very interesting stops. Fist at Kosta Nova the lighthouse, the tallest in Portugal then to walk a little bit for photos of the gorgeous beach cottages. Next stop Coimbra was for lunch and a walking tour of the university. One of the oldest in Europe and the library with very treasured old books from the 12 century. We heard how they are treated to preserve them including cats being allowed in at night to keep the mice away and a couple of tiny bats that eat any insects. Apparently this method is working well.. 👍This is the library in the Beauty and the Beast movie with Emma Thomson. The Harry Potter series idea came from this university and .it's strict traditions which are still practiced today. The traditional students still wear black suits girls and boys (but girls with a skirt) and the black cape. We saw some student initiations happening which were quite funny. Lots of yelling and bowing to the seniors. We weren't allowed to photograph. You might know JK Rowling wrote at least the first Potter book when she lived in Portugal. Lastly a town nick named Portugals Venice (Arveira) because of the canals and boats. I loved this place. The buildings were colourful, lots with gorgeous tiles, several of Art Nouveau architecture and nice green areas. Arrived in Lisbon just after 7 and had a quick turn around to meet in lobby at 7.30 for the bus to our restaurant for dinner. Luckily the meals don't take long and we were home just after 9.30 and very ready to shower and hit the sack. The random photo of the shoe is because it's made of cork. Cork products are made in Portugal and the variety is endless. Bags coin purses shoes bikinis anything you could think of really
. Apparently it is very strong like leather and easy to clean and care for. We weren't allowed to take photos in the library. I have given you some from out side and also inside the small chapel. The tiles are gorgeous and of course you have to always look up because the ceiling artwork and decoration is incredible. Enjoy.Read more