Seminario Maior da Sagrada Familia (Major Seminary of the Holy Family), Coimbra

The Major Seminary of the Holy Family (Seminário Maior da Sagrada Família) is a historical and religious landmark in Coimbra. Recognized as a National Monument since April 22, 2021, this grand institution has played a significant role in both theological and secular education for centuries.

The seminary was established on June 16, 1748, at the initiative of D. Miguel da Anunciacao, the Bishop of Coimbra and 16th Count of Arganil. The architectural vision for the building was executed by Italian architects Giovani Tamossi and Giacomo Azzollini, blending European influences into the city's cultural and religious landscape. The seminary was officially inaugurated on October 28, 1765, marking the beginning of its enduring legacy.

Among its most remarkable features is the Old Library, located on the ground floor, which houses an invaluable collection of approximately 9,000 books. These works, spanning from the early 16th century to 1800, represent a rich historical and intellectual heritage. The library's origins trace back to the private collection of Bishop D. Miguel da Anunciacao, which was later expanded through purchases and donations.

The seminary was designed to cater to both ecclesiastical students (Ordinandos) and lay scholars (Portionists), ensuring that the library contained essential materials for a broad spectrum of theological and secular disciplines.

Despite the 1834 decree suppressing religious orders and dispersing collegiate libraries, the Old Library of the Major Seminary remained intact, alongside the Royal College of Sao Pedro’s collection (now in the University of Coimbra’s General Library). It also survived the 1910 secularization of Church assets. With works in Latin, Portuguese, Spanish, and French, it spans Theology, Law, Sacred Scripture, Humanities, and History-a carefully preserved testament to Coimbra’s intellectual and spiritual heritage.

Today, the Major Seminary of the Holy Family continues to symbolize Portugal’s rich religious and educational history, preserving its architectural and bibliographic heritage for future generations.