Heritage
Porto’s historic buildings, structures, and deeply rooted traditions are all part of the city’s heritage. Here, you can discover medieval gems, neo-classic treasures and eerie romantic visions. Follow us through the city’s top ten heritage highlights.
PORTO’S HERITAGE ATTRACTIONS
Clérigos Tower
From up here, Porto is even more charming. Clérigos Tower, with its 75 meters of baroque mastery, is a perfect viewpoint to appreciate Porto's city centre. But beware, to get to the top, you must conquer 225 steps! Have a good climb!
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Igreja do Carmo’s Azulejo Tile Mural
Known for its magnificent decorative hand-painted azulejo tiles, the 18th-century church Igreja da Ordem Terceira de Nossa Senhora do Carmo, is one of Porto’s touristic highlights. When you stop by look closely, really!! Because you might miss the sight of the narrowest house in Porto, also known as, the hidden house. It hides many secrets.
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Capela das Almas’ Mural
A sight to lift up your soul! The 18th-century Capela das Almas (souls’ chapel) is one of the city’s most sticking monuments. Why is that? Take a look at the unique hand-painted azulejo tile exterior, representing scenes from the life of St. Francis of Assisi and St. Catherine. We told you so.
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Tram Museum
Can you imagine taking a journey back in time and finding yourself inside a 19th-century tram? That’s what the tram museum is all about. To get the full picture, step right into history, and follow the river on the fully operational 18 tram way.
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Felgueiras Lighthouse
The hexagon-styled 19th-century lighthouse looking over the Douro River has become one of the most photographed features of Porto. The sea-brushed stone walls soak the filtered sunset light, merging perfectly with the waves. It’s well worth a visit.
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São João Baptista Fort
These 16th-century stone walls hold the city’s history, having survived countless wars and rebellions. Besides being a great example of military architecture, the fort was once the home of one of our foremost poets, Florbela Espanca, who lived there with her husband,a garrison officer. That’s incredible, isn’t it?
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Lapa Church
Why is this such a particular church? Because it holds D. Pedro IV’s heart. Yes, that’s correct, the king’s preserved heart, which is one of the city’s most cherished treasures. It also houses one of the best and most beautiful pipe organs in the Iberian Peninsula. That sounds a bit better.
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Lapa Cemetery
This is the oldest romantic cemetery in the country. In its tree-laden avenues, nature and art go hand in hand, inviting you to take a peaceful walk, while visiting some of Portugal’s foremost figures resting place. How many romantic secrets are buried here?
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Muralha Fernandina (Old city walls)
This example of walled medieval fortification is one of Porto’s best well-kept secrets. The remains of the Romanesque walls offer unparalleled viewpoints over the city, merging perfectly into the modern city background.
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São Roque House
In Porto, we try to make the most of our heritage. São Roque House might only look like a fine example of 18th-century Porto townhouse design. However, today it is much more than that. It is a contemporary art hub, an arquitectonic treasure and the gateway to a labyrinth garden.
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OTHER HERITAGE ATTRACTIONS?
Porto’s heritage has a lot more to offer. Talk to us through Live Chat for different suggestions, routes or general information. We can’t wait to hear from you!
