Official Coimbra Tourism website
The legend of Princess Cindazunda dates back to the 5th century, during a time of great battles between the Alans and the Suevi, peoples who fought for control of the Iberian Peninsula. Ataces, king of the Alans, after conquering Aeminium, modern-day Coimbra, found himself confronted by the king of the Suevi, Hermeneric, who sought to avenge his defeats.
The confrontation between the two armies was fierce, turning the waters of the Mondego River red. Faced with imminent defeat, Hermenerico sought a peaceful solution and offered the hand of his daughter, the beautiful Cindazunda, to the victorious Ataces.
Legend has it that Cindazunda was extraordinarily beautiful, and Ataces fell in love with her immediately upon seeing her. Their marriage sealed peace between their peoples, uniting the Alans and the Suevi in a new alliance. To celebrate this union, the couple traveled to Coimbra, where they celebrated their wedding in great splendor. The arrival of the princess was an important milestone for the city, which saw in her figure the promise of a new era of stability and prosperity.
As a symbol of this union, Ataces granted Coimbra a coat of arms that still stands today. The central figure is Cindazunda, represented as a crowned maiden. The chalice symbolizes the marriage alliance, while the lion represents Ataces and the dragon, or winged serpent, is the emblem of Hermenerico. Thus, the story of the princess remains immortalized in the symbols of the city, reminding everyone of the importance of love and diplomacy in building the future.
The legend of Cindazunda continues to fascinate visitors to Coimbra, evoking a past full of romance, war and honour. The city, with its historic streets and the majesty of the Mondego River, still preserves the echo of this ancient history, inviting travellers to delve into its heritage and discover the secrets that made this land the stage for such memorable events.
Old Coimbra Station A
António Granjo Street No. 6
3000-429 Coimbra, Portugal
© Official Coimbra Tourism website