Historic Centre of Oporto in Portugal

Facts and Data

Webpages:
Official Unesco Page
Porto Vivo SRU (Societety for Urban Rehabilitation)
Câmara Municipal do Porto (Oporto Municipality)
Casa da Música (Hous of Music)
Direcção Geral dos Edifícios e Monumentos Nacionais
View photos from OUR PLACE the World Heritage collection
PORTO, Cidade Mundial
Plano de Gestão (Management Plan)
IGESPAR (Institute for the Management of Architectural and Archaeological Heritage)

Basis Data:
Unesco World heritage since: 1996
Size of heritage:

Coordinates:
Longitude: -7,383°
Latitude: 41,142°

Summary

The city of Oporto, built along the hillsides overlooking the mouth of the Douro river, is an outstanding urban landscape with a 2,000-year history. Its continuous growth, linked to the sea (the Romans gave it the name Portus, or port), can be seen in the many and varied monuments, from the cathedral with its Romanesque choir, to the neoclassical Stock Exchange and the typically Portuguese Manueline-style Church of Santa Clara.

Location on Map

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Historic Centre of Oporto: A Glimpse into Portugal's Rich History

The Historic Centre of Oporto, located in the northern region of Portugal, is a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers a captivating journey through the country's rich history. This remarkable site showcases the unique blend of architectural styles, cultural heritage, and urban development that has shaped the city of Oporto over the centuries.

History

The history of the Historic Centre of Oporto dates back to Roman times when it was known as Portus Cale. The city flourished as a commercial hub due to its strategic location along the Douro River, which facilitated trade with other regions of the Iberian Peninsula. Throughout the centuries, Oporto experienced the influence of various civilizations, including the Moors and the Christian Reconquista.

During the 14th and 15th centuries, Oporto played a crucial role in the Age of Discoveries, as it served as a departure point for Portuguese explorers. This period of maritime expansion brought wealth and prosperity to the city, leading to the construction of magnificent buildings and the development of a unique architectural style known as the "Portuguese Manueline."

However, the city faced significant challenges in the 18th and 19th centuries, including the French invasions and the decline of the port wine trade. Despite these setbacks, Oporto managed to preserve its historic center, which became a symbol of resilience and cultural heritage.

Current State

The Historic Centre of Oporto is a living testament to the city's vibrant past. The site encompasses an area of approximately 45 hectares and is characterized by its narrow streets, picturesque squares, and iconic landmarks.

One of the most prominent features of the historic center is the Ribeira district, located along the Douro River. This charming neighborhood is lined with colorful buildings, traditional houses, and lively cafes, offering visitors a glimpse into the daily life of the locals. The Ribeira district also provides stunning views of the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge, which connects Oporto with the neighboring city of Vila Nova de Gaia.

The Historic Centre of Oporto is also home to numerous architectural gems, including the Porto Cathedral, a magnificent Romanesque structure that dates back to the 12th century. The São Bento Railway Station is another notable landmark, renowned for its exquisite tile panels that depict scenes from Portuguese history.

Furthermore, the historic center is dotted with numerous churches, such as the Church of São Francisco, known for its opulent Baroque interior, and the Church of Santa Clara, which houses the tomb of King John I and Queen Philippa of Lancaster.

Preservation efforts have been paramount in maintaining the integrity of the Historic Centre of Oporto. The city has implemented strict regulations to protect its architectural heritage, ensuring that new constructions blend harmoniously with the existing urban fabric. Additionally, ongoing restoration projects have been carried out to preserve and enhance the historical buildings and public spaces.

The Historic Centre of Oporto stands as a testament to the city's rich history and cultural significance. Its unique blend of architectural styles, vibrant atmosphere, and historical landmarks make it a must-visit destination for those seeking to immerse themselves in Portugal's captivating past.

Hotels and places to stay

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Casa do Tua

Address
Distance: 4,9 mi
Avenida da Estação 5
5140-133 Castanheiro
Portugal

Time Information

Checkout: 23:30 - Checkin: 15:00
Reception
Weekday: 0:00 - 24:00
Weekend: 0:00 - 24:00

Videos from the area

Saberes e Sabores do Douro 2012 (Turiviajar.tv)

Published: May 01, 2012
Length: 45:05 min
Rating: 5 of 5
Author: CanalTuriviajar

http://www.turiviajar.tv Os Saberes e os Sabores que o Douro mostra Nas gentes das nossas aldeias ainda continua viva a sabedoria tradicional no modo de fazerem os produtos regionais,...