The maxim etched into the wall of the main hall of the Instituto de Ciu00eancias Biomu00e9dicas Abel Salazar – Polo de Medicina strikes a chord: “The one who only knows about Medicine, does not even know about Medicine.” This powerful statement was penned by Abel Salazar, the namesake of this institution, and a renowned Portuguese physician, lecturer, researcher, writer, and painter, who lived and worked in Porto. The Instituto, a graduate school of the University of Porto, carries on his legacy, teaching medicine and life sciences, with a special focus on advanced training, research, and innovation.
This building, while a relatively new addition to the Porto landscape, stands as a beacon of knowledge and a testament to the spirit of innovation that defines this city. Its creation in 1975, after the 1974 revolution, marked a significant turning point in Porto’s medical education. Driven by a spirit of renewal, the University, realizing the need for a dedicated medical school, took a bold step to establish this institute. It wasn’t just about bricks and mortar, though. From the outset, the focus was placed on creating a multidisciplinary and multiprofessional environment, where the convergence of various scientific fields would spark new discoveries and shape the future of healthcare.
What might seem just another institution in the heart of Porto, is actually a thriving hub of knowledge. Students from all corners of the world come here to study medicine, marine biology, veterinary medicine, biochemistry, and bioengineering. They are not just students; they are the future generation of medical professionals, researchers, and innovators. Today, as you stand before it, you are witness to the legacy of Abel Salazar. You are witness to the very heart of medical education in Porto.