
Portugal Heritage
Welcome to Cooltour Oporto's blog – your guide to the heart and soul of Portugal! Embark on an exciting journey through the beauty, culture, and heritage of our country. Discover hidden gems, must-visit landmarks, and off-the-beaten-path experiences recommended by our expert guides. From Porto’s historic center to the Douro Valley, uncover the essence of Portuguese life, including local festivals, ancient tales, and authentic food. Learn insider tips to navigate like a local. All content is prepared with love by Cooltour Oporto, ensuring you experience Porto and Portugal like never before!

Casa da Música, a landmark music venue in Porto
Casa da Música, designed by renowned architect Rem Koolhaas, is a landmark music venue in Porto, opened in 2005. This innovative building features two main auditoriums and various cultural spaces, making it a hub for artistic, musical, and educational events.
September 16, 2024
Posted in:Places & Landmarks, Porto,
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Palácio da Bolsa - a vibrant hub for cultural, social, and political events
The Palácio da Bolsa in Porto, a neoclassical architectural masterpiece, began construction in 1842, with contributions from several renowned architects over the years. Today, it serves as a cultural hub, featuring the opulent Arabian Room and exquisite craftsmanship like the Portrait Room's table, crafted by Zeferino José Pinto.
September 12, 2024
Posted in:Places & Landmarks, Porto,

Exploring Porto's Architectural Heritage
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.
August 21, 2024
Posted in:History & Heritage, Porto,

Souto de Moura: Influences and Achievements
Eduardo Souto de Moura, a prominent Portuguese architect born in Porto in 1952, has made significant contributions to architecture, drawing from diverse influences including Álvaro Siza Vieira, Mies van der Rohe, and minimalist art. Awarded the Pritzker Prize in 2011, his work is celebrated globally for its innovative approach, reflected in landmark projects like the Municipal Stadium in Braga and the Burgo Building in Porto.
August 16, 2024
Posted in:People & Tradition, Porto,

Álvaro Siza Vieira: Architect of Global Influence
Álvaro Siza Vieira, a celebrated Portuguese architect, has made a significant impact on both national and international architecture with his avant-garde designs. His notable works, such as the Casa de Chá da Boa Nova, the Faculty of Architecture at the University of Porto, and the Serralves Museum of Contemporary Art, have earned him prestigious awards, including the Pritzker Prize and the Golden Lion at the Venice Biennale. Siza Vieira's architectural legacy continues to inspire new generations of architects worldwide.
August 9, 2024
Posted in:People & Tradition, Porto,

Discover Almeida Garrett: Porto's Literary Icon
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.
August 2, 2024
Posted in:History & Heritage, People & Tradition, Porto,

Portugal Day: 10th of June
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.
June 7, 2024
Posted in:History & Heritage, Portugal,

Nicolau Nasoni: The Master Architect of Porto
Nicolau Nasoni’s visionary contributions to Porto’s architecture endure to this day Niccolò Nasoni, better known in Portugal as Nicolau Nasoni, was born in San Giovanni Valdarno, in the Italian Grand Duchy of Tuscany, in what is known today as the region of Florence, on June 2, 1691. As the son of Giuseppe Francesco Nasoni…
April 18, 2024
Posted in:History & Heritage, People & Tradition, Porto,

Clérigos Tower: Porto ex-libris
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…
December 7, 2023
Posted in:Places & Landmarks, Porto,

Porto Cathedral – Sé do Porto
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…
November 8, 2023
Posted in:Places & Landmarks, Porto,