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 in the Alta de Coimbra is guided by a clear mission: to revitalise the historic centre of Coimbra, so that the city may have more character, more stories lived in its streets, and a deeper “soul” felt by those who arrive. 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 authenticity to the historic buildings of the city centre, contributing to a more vibrant and lively Coimbra. When choosing to stay in one of our properties, such as Casa de São Bento, guests can expect modern comfort thoughtfully integrated into spaces of remarkable heritage: practical kitchenettes, climate control, 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

Casa de São Bento carries the spirit of 19th-century Coimbra. The building, a bourgeois townhouse of the period, was both home and school: it once housed one of the city’s historic colleges, shaping generations in an era when Coimbra stood as the country’s greatest intellectual centre, deeply influenced by student life and the academic tradition surrounding the university. Its restoration honoured the original architecture, tall façades, large windows, and the robust structure typical of distinguished urban manor houses, preserving features such as the wooden staircase, high-ceilinged doors, and architectural details that recount the story of the place. Today, the décor blends this heritage with contemporary elements. Inside, noble woods, soft textures, and a palette inspired by the colours of the city and its gardens set the tone. The social areas balance comfort and authenticity, featuring period pieces and details in forged wrought iron. The bedrooms and lofts include fully equipped kitchenettes, private bathrooms, air conditioning, complimentary Wi-Fi, television, and premium amenities. The property also offers welcoming communal spaces and an exceptional location between Sereia Garden and the Botanical Garden, next to the iconic Alta de Coimbra.

Casa de São Bento is located close to numerous tourist landmarks, and within a 250-metre radius you will find, among others: the University of Coimbra, including its Tower and the Joanina Library, the Machado de Castro Museum, the Botanical Garden, the Arcos de São Sebastião, the Bissaya Barreto House Museum, the Jardim da Sereia, the Casa da Cultura, and the Gil Vicente Theatre. The property is situated in a quiet area, yet very close to the bustle of student life centred around Praça da República and Avenida Sá Bandeira, with a variety of restaurants, bars, and nightclubs.