History

Discover Porto's rich architectural journey, from its Romanesque beginnings to its modern, avant-garde landmarks. Explore how the city's iconic structures narrate a story of historical depth and contemporary innovation.

Almeida Garrett, born in Porto in 1799, was a pivotal figure in 19th-century Portuguese literature and politics. Renowned for his works "Frei Luís de Sousa" and "Viagens na Minha Terra," he played a crucial role in the Liberal Revolution and the development of Portuguese theater and dramatic arts.

Discover northern Portugal's culture, history, and gastronomy with day trips from Porto. Visit Guimarães, "The Cradle of the Portuguese Nation," with its UNESCO-listed historic center; explore Braga's ancient sites like the Santuário do Bom Jesus do Monte; enjoy Aveiro's canals and moliceiros boats; see Coimbra's historic Universidade de Coimbra and Biblioteca Joanina; and experience Pinhão's terraced vineyards and Port wine in the Alto Douro Wine Region. For in-depth experiences, consider Cooltour Oporto's tours.

June 10th marks the Day of Portugal, Luís de Camões, and the Portuguese Communities, celebrating the famed poet Camões and his epic "Os Lusíadas." Once associated with the Estado Novo regime, this holiday now emphasizes global Portuguese unity. This year’s events will occur in areas affected by the 2017 fires and at the University of Coimbra, commemorating Camões' 500th birth anniversary.

Portugal is a country filled with traditions, some of which remain virtually unchanged throughout the years. Thanks to its strong Catholic roots, it’s not surprising that many religious celebrations take place every year from the north to the south of Portugal. Among these celebrations is Easter, a time when devout Catholics all over the world…

Amadeo de Souza-Cardoso, born in Amarante, in the town of Manhufe, in November 1887, is today recognized as one of the most prominent avant-garde artists of the early 20th century. His legacy is intertwined with movements such as Cubism, Futurism, and Expressionism, reaching, at many points, and in a sustained way, a level that is…

Photo Credit: Casa Ferreirinha Portugal today is associated with many key elements, but one of them is undoubtedly the work and legacy that we have left, and continue to give, in the field of high-quality wine. If this is about our famous wines, like the worldwide Port wine, then one figure who is absolutely incomparable,…

Clerigos Tower stands tall, showcasing stunning architectural beauty in the heart of Porto The Torre dos Clérigos, constructed of granite and towering from the western apex of the church, is hailed as one of the city’s landmarks and measures a total of 75m (245 feet) in height. Its construction began in 1732 and was completed…

A breathtaking side view of Porto Cathedral. Situated in the historical center of Porto and designated as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, Sé do Porto, or Porto Cathedral, serves as an excellent starting point to explore the city and delve into the history of the nation’s foundation. In 1120, D. Teresa donated the medieval…

“Fado” is a word that derives from the Latin “fatum,” which means destiny. However, the origin of this distinctive musical style, highly cherished in Portugal, remains unknown. It is widely accepted that it emerged spontaneously in Lisbon during the 19th century as an expression among the most underprivileged classes in an urban setting. Maria Severa…