Gifts with a (Hi)Story: UC Tourism launches Christmas collection
The University of Coimbra's Tourism Unit is launching new merchandising items as part of its 2024 Christmas collection.
Gifts with a (Hi)Story are already available in the shops of the University of Coimbra (UC), as part of an initiative by the UC Tourism Unit (NTUC). Each new item is inspired by a 'story from the University's rich history', describes the NTUC, 'as a tribute to the University's living heritage and its deep connection to the city and country'.
NTUC coordinator Catarina Freire explains, ' We want all our colleagues, students, and teachers to take home a UC gift with a story linked to the Paço das Escolas. '
Among the souvenirs for Christmas 2024, the angels stand out, about the figures at the Porta Férrea, who 'with their watchful gaze, watch over those who enter, all the way to the Joanina Library, the Chapel of St Michael and the Royal Palace', and Queen St Elizabeth, who lived in the Royal Palace. The tiles and ceiling of the Chapel of St Michael also inspired the design of the 'illustrated handkerchiefs', not forgetting the 'iconic' bats, 'protectors of the Joanine Library', represented in 'fun socks that combine modernity with one of the most told stories by children and adults alike'.
Some of the items have been made by users of APPACDM Coimbra - the Portuguese Association of Parents and Friends of Mentally Disabled Citizens of Coimbra, which promotes the social inclusion of its members.
The campaign also has a charitable nature: ''When you buy from the UC store, you are donating to and helping APPACDM,'' says Catarina Freire.
The UC community benefits from a 10% discount on all items in the university's tourism shops. We want everyone to bring a gift and share the UC brand with their family," Freire concludes.