The city of Coimbra played a fundamental role in the consolidation of national identity, being the scene of decisive moments in Portugal's independence.

In 1064, Coimbra became the most important city on the Mondego defensive line, governed at the time by D. Sesnando. In 1111, Count D. Henrique and D. Teresa granted a charter to the city, making it their residence.

In 1131, D. Afonso Henriques transferred the capital of the County of Portugal from Guimarães to Coimbra, which proved to be extremely important for the independence and foundation of the Kingdom of Portugal in 1143. The importance and importance that the city had in the Christian reconquest, in the formation of Portugal and in the identity of a people, led to the construction of some of the most beautiful and important national monuments in Coimbra, namely the Monastery of Santa Cruz, where the mortal remains of the founders of the Kingdom rest; the Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Velha, refounded by the patron saint of the city, Queen Saint Isabel, wife of the founder of the University; the current Convent of São Francisco – Coimbra Culture and Congresses – Municipal Heritage.

The establishment of the kingdom of Portugal, with Coimbra as its capital, led to the expansion and conquest of the national territory being closely linked to cities such as Tomar and Alcobaça and later with the town of Batalha.

The permanent installation of the University in Coimbra, in the former Royal Palace, increases the city's responsibility in the intellectual formation of Portuguese society, which began in the 12th century, in the then Monastery of Santa Cruz.