Queima das Fitas

The University in Portuguese city of Coimbra was founded in 1290. It is one of the oldest universities in Europe. Every year at the beginning of May local students participate in the tradition known as the Queima das Fitas or “Burning of the Ribbons”. It is held to celebrate the end of school year and beginning of preparations for the exams.

Queima das Fitas

Queima das Fitas lasts for a week. It starts with the performance of the Song of Coimbra in front of city cathedral. It includes various dance and other events. Still the most important of them all the ritual burning of student ribbons in the chamber pot. Students get badges with ribbons during the baixe or initiation rites. Each faculty has ribbon of different colour. Everything ends with a colourful student parade towards the centre of Coimbra called Baixa.