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!
Visit site
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.
Visit site
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.
Visit site
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.
Visit site
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.
Visit site
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?
Visit site
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.
Visit site
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?
Visit site
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.
Visit site
Casa São Roque
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.
Visit site
António Carneiro Studio
Symbolism or Modernism? Whatever your favourite art movement, we suggest you visit this studio and explore the space that inspired the works of António Carneiro and his son Carlos Carneiro.
Transport and Communications Museum
Next stop: Transport and Communications Museum. If you want to know what has driven Porto’s development over the last centuries, you should visit this stunning museum's permanent exhibition. Here, we are invited to see, touch and explore the engines that have boosted the evolution of Portuguese cities.
Fernando de Castro House Museum
Have you ever wondered how is an 18th-century poet, caricaturist and art collector's house? From the outside, it looks like any other building, but the interior is truly unique. Filled with sculptures and paintings and walls covered with Portuguese “talha dourada”, Fernando de Castro House Museum is an eccentric and fascinating residence, like no other.
Visit site
Engineer António de Almeida Foundation House Museum
We couldn’t be more grateful to Engineer António de Almeida. Due to his kindness, we can now visit the house where he lived. Today, his former house is a museum, exhibiting incredible interiors, furniture, ceramics and jewellery.
Visit site
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!
