A city steeped in history. That’s Porto. Its story unfolds before you.
Porto is Portugal’s second-largest city. It’s a vital Atlantic port. Nestled on the Douro River estuary it follows the river to the ocean. The drive from Lisbon is roughly 320 kilometers. Porto’s name in Portuguese is “o Porto”. This means “the port”. The English name Oporto comes from a misinterpretation of the Portuguese pronunciation. Its Latin name Portus Cale is where Portugal gets its name.
Porto’s most famous export is Port wine. Most Port wine is exported from Vila Nova de Gaia across the river from Porto. Other exports include cork fruit olive oil and building materials.
Porto is one of Europe’s oldest cities. UNESCO declared its historic buildings and monuments a World Heritage Site in 1996. Evidence of early settlers dates back to the Bronze Age in the 8th century BC. This ancient village Cividade was unfortunately demolished in 1940.
The city has a rich culinary tradition. “Tripas à Moda do Porto” is a traditional dish. In the 15th century Porto gave much meat to the military. The people kept only tripe. That’s why Porto’s people are called Tripeiros.
Porto’s history is full of dramatic events. Napoleon’s troops invaded Porto in 1807 and again in 1809. The Bridge of Barques collapsed during the second invasion. Hundreds of people trying to escape drowned in the Douro.
Porto’s landmarks tell its story. The Torre dos Clérigos is a striking baroque tower. The Sé cathedral dates back to the 12th century. The Dom Luís Bridge was built between 1881 and 1887. The Crystal Palace was built in 1865. The Serralves Museum of Contemporary Art opened in 1999. The Port wine lodges on Vila Nova de Gaia’s hillside are also prominent.
Porto’s history is a tapestry woven with threads of trade war and resilience. Its spirit remains unbroken. Its wines are world-renowned. Its people are proud. Enjoy Porto. It’s a journey through time.