Arco de Almedina (Almedina Arch), Coimbra

In the 11th century the Arab conqueror Almansor rebuilt the walls around the conquered city of Coimbra. Only three gates permitted entrance to the citadel. Since that time almost all of the wall with exception of one gate have gone missing. The Almedina Arch, with its tower, Almadina Tower, form the only surviving medieval gate.

The arch is a vaulted arch and tunnel. "Almedina" is derived from the Arabic word for "town." The arched tunnels were defensive choke points designed to slow invaders. The tower over the Almedina Arch provided additional defensive functions. It was also a center for meetings of the municipal council.

A bell at the top of the tower would announce meetings of the council. The bell would also announce openings and closings of the city gates. The bell routine was followed faithfully until 1870. The tower once held a small chapel dedicated to Our Lady of the Conception. Mass was celebrated in the chapel before meetings of the Council.

In 1835 a better space was found for meetings and the tower was used off and on by other entities. Since 1988 it has been used to house Municipal Historical Archives. Passing through the arch one finds the Rua de Cuebra Costas (Backbreak Street). This aptly named street is a steep, exhausting climb to the old Cathedral of Coimbra.