Oxford is set to become the leading centre for the study of one of Europe's richest cultures, following the opening of a new academic centre.

Oxford University has teamed up with the Portuguese government to open Britain's first dedicated centre for the study of Portuguese history. The Centro de Lingua Portuguesa / Instituto Camoes, in Littlegate House, St Ebbe's, was set up with funding from the Lisbon-based Instituto Camoes - an agency of the Portuguese government aimed at promoting the country's language and culture.

The centre, which houses an important collection of historic photographs, was opened by the Instituto's President, Snr Jorge Couto, of the Portuguese Embassy in London, Prof Joao Camilo dos Santos, and Oxford University's Vice-Chancellor Dr Colin Lucas.