Cindazunda

In the early 5th century, Ataces, king of the Alans, after conquering Aeminium (modern Coimbra), near the already declining city of Conímbriga (the former chief settlement in the area during Roman times) also conquered by him and later completely destroyed by the Suebi between 465 and 468, decided to found or restore another one with the same name of the former on the right bank of the Mondego in place of Aeminium.

When Ataces was directing the construction of this new city he called Colimbria in honor of ancient Conímbriga, the Suebi king Hermeric and his army appeared to take possession of the city and to take revenge for the defeats he had suffered.

Hermeric withdrew to the north, but Ataces went in pursuit and the Swabian king was forced to ask for peace.

As is usual in such cases, the legend says that Cindazunda was extremely beautiful and that Ataces soon fell in love with her.

The royal couple came on their way to Coimbra, accompanied by their father and father-in-law, and soon the espousals and wedding took place, with all due magnificence.

The coat of arms of Coimbra is said to be inspired on Cindazunda, Hermeric 's daughter. The legendary symbolism of the lion is tied to Ataces , ruler of the Alans, and that of the winged serpent (or dragon) is tied to Hermeric, ruler of the Suebi. [ 1 ]