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scientists. Tradition is strong here, illustrated by the student the University and old town, and all agreed this Portuguese
and faculty garb, dashing black capes. We spotted a few on treasure was worth a return visit, perhaps when the
the hot summer day when we were on the sprawling university is in session and bustling with activity.
campus. Although its historic bond with Portugal is strong, The jewel of the University is its splendid library or The
students representing more than 70 nationalities add an Book House as it’s called. Built between 1717 and 1728, it
international flavor. was designed to show off the wealth of the empire,
We visited several museums, filled with historic especially the colony of Brazil. We purchased time-specific
artifacts and treasures brought to the University during the tickets in advance and some two hours later, walked inside
golden years of discovery. Afterward, we took a well- with the others in our group.
deserved break at one of the many campus eateries. We The grand Baroque-style main library is surrounded by
could have happily spent many more days roaming around highly decorated bookcases lined with rare bibliographic

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