Purus was born with a purpose that goes beyond accommodation management: to restore and breathe new life into historic buildings, preserving their essence and returning soul to the heart of the city. Each property we rehabilitate follows a clear mission: to revitalise Coimbra’s historic centre, so that the city may gain more character, more stories lived in its streets, and a deeper “soul” felt by those who visit. What sets us apart is our respect for the architecture of the past. We specialise in restoring distinguished manor houses, former colleges, and bourgeois townhouses, mostly from the 19th century, carefully preserving features such as solid wood staircases, tall windows, original stonework, and period ironmongery. Our goal is not simply to rebuild walls, but to recover identity and restore the authenticity of the city centre’s historic buildings, contributing to a more vibrant and lively Coimbra. When choosing to stay in one of our properties, such as Casa da Baixa, guests can expect modern comfort thoughtfully integrated into spaces of remarkable heritage: practical kitchenettes, air conditioning, high-speed Wi-Fi, warm lighting, and decorative details that honour the story of each building. Guests will find an experienced, attentive, and approachable team, committed to making every stay effortless, comfortable, and enriched by the cultural weight of the place, because believing in the city also means believing in the buildings that tell its story.

Deeply rooted in the identity of Coimbra, Casa da Baixa is a historic building that has witnessed centuries of life and transformation. Erected beside the imposing medieval city walls, this unique house was, for decades, home to the iconic Barbearia Universal of Bazílio Diniz, a master barber who left his mark on the 20th century, and it still houses the workshop of Mr. Zé, one of Coimbra’s oldest and most respected shoemakers. During its meticulous restoration, architectural elements of great heritage value were carefully preserved, such as artistically decorated ceilings, wrought-iron balconies, and noble wooden floors, giving the space an atmosphere of elegance and authenticity. Here, past and present intertwine harmoniously, allowing the charm of bygone times to shine in a setting of contemporary comfort and sophistication. More than a building, Casa da Baixa is a living testament to the soul of Coimbra, where every detail tells a story and every corner breathes tradition.

Casa da Baixa is located in the heart of Coimbra, in an area that blends history, tradition, and urban vitality. Just a few steps away, visitors can explore monuments of great historical significance, such as the Monastery of Santa Cruz, where the remains of Portugal’s first king, D. Afonso Henriques, rest, and the Arco de Almedina, an ancient gateway to the medieval city that bears witness to centuries of history. Beyond its monumental heritage, Coimbra’s Baixa offers an authentic urban experience: here you will find some of the city’s best pastry shops, perfect for sampling traditional sweets, as well as the most traditional shops, which keep alive the practices and flavours typical of the region.