The University of Coimbra (UC) begins 2025 by celebrating the timeless legacy of Luís de Camões, one of the greatest icons of world literature. The CAMÕES 500 exhibition invites the public to explore different facets of the life and work of the poet, whose connection with Coimbra is deeply rooted. It will open on 9 January at 4 pm in the São Pedro Room of the General Library of the University of Coimbra (BGUC). The exhibition reflects the continuing relevance of the poet and his work in the global cultural and literary panorama and will be open until 10 June 2025, with free admission.
Five hundred years after the probable date of Luís de Camões' birth (around 1524/1525), and 'despite the many changes that have affected the world and humanity since then, the desire to see, hear and read Camões is still very much alive', say the exhibition's curators, Paulo da Silva Pereira and Filipa Araújo. Following this vision, CAMÕES 500 is divided into four thematic sections, offering the public a unique opportunity to understand Camões as an immortal figure, while exploring his multiple facets and cultural impact.
General programme to be presented at the exhibition opening
The general programme of the UC celebrations of the 500th anniversary of the birth of Luís de Camões will be presented at the official opening of the exhibition, with a concert by Ars Lusitana ensemble, which will recreate the musical atmosphere of the Camões era at 5.30 pm, at the UC St Michael's Chapel.
The presentation of the programme will include speeches by the UC Vice-Rector for Culture, Communication and Open Science, Delfim Leão; the Director of the UC General Library, Manuel Portela; the Commissioner General for the Commemorations of the 5th Centenary of Luís de Camões (and Full Professor at the UC Faculty of Arts and Humanities), José Augusto Bernardes; and the curators of the exhibition (and members of the organising committee of the UC commemorations of the 500th anniversary of Luís de Camões' birth), Paulo da Silva Pereira and Filipa Araújo.
Camões and Coimbra, inextricably linked
Camões and Coimbra are deeply connected. The city played a key role in shaping the poet's intellectual and emotional journey and is forever linked to his memory. With its rich cultural and humanist heritage, Coimbra is the perfect setting to celebrate five centuries of Camões' legacy.
A celebration for all
The commemoration of the 500th anniversary of the birth of Luís de Camões reaffirms the University of Coimbra's commitment to promoting Lusophone literature, history and culture. The exhibition and accompanying programme of activities will celebrate Camões as a universal poet whose work transcends cultural, temporal and geographical boundaries.
For full details of the planned initiatives, please visit https://www.uc.pt/500camoes/.
English version: Diana Taborda