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The suggestions of João Espírito Santo
15 February, 2018 / , ,

One of the most famous Portuguese dentists, frequent TV show guest and a with a charitable mission: make people smile and care of their oral health regardless of their economical standing.

In Portugal, he’s mainly known as “Senhor Doutor” (Mr. Doctor) or “Doutor João” (Doctor João), thanks to a television show that offers dental treatment to the less fortunate. Besides his appointments and investigation, he teaches at Portuguese and Spanish schools.

Born in Porto in 1979, João Espírito Santo studied and worked most of his time in the city, where he founded and runs the Medical Art Center clinic. Porto, and mainly Foz, are his base despite having to travel frequently the past few years for academic and business reasons. Here is where he lives and where he has his clinic as well as some of his favorite spots. João Espírito Santo, married and a father of three, enjoys traditional dishes and restaurants, but doesn’t pass up a family stroll along the ocean or close to the Rio Douro.

 

  • Bar 

Casa do Livro (R. da Galeria de Paris, 85 Porto)

Fé Wine & Club (Praça D. Filipa de Lencastre nº1)

  • Restaurant

Cepa Torta

  1. de Gondarém 843, Porto
  • A stroll

The gardens of Serralves

Or a bike ride from Foz to Afurada, crossing by boat and coming back through the ponte D. Luís (D. Luís bridge)

  • Romantic place

Jardins do Museu do Vinho Porto –  Rua de Monchique 94

  • A city secret (a place that is not well known)

Ham rolls at Casa Bacelar (Praça Dom Afonso V, 55, Porto) Hake fillets or Arroz de Cabidela (Cabidela rice) at the Restaurante A Capoeira (Esplanada do Castelo 63, Porto) Capela de Santa Teresinha (Chapel Santa Teresinha)

 

João Queiroz – Baixa’s architect
7 February, 2018 / , ,

Café Majestic is perhaps his most emblematic work. João Queiroz always worked alone in a small workshop in the Baixa do Porto, and helped define the aesthetics of one of the most famed areas of the city.

He was born in Porto in 1892, and lived all of his youth in a house in Rua de Santa Catarina in front of where Café Majestic currently stands. At the time, those grounds were filled with mulberry trees which were essential for the production of silk. They would come to be occupied by buildings that would become essential to the story of the city, many of them with the architect’s mark.

He did his Preparatory Course of Drawing at the Escola de Belas Artes do Porto and, in 1926, after having worked at the General Board of Buildings and Monuments of the North, received his architect diploma. He would go back to studying at age 52, enrolling in the course of Urbanology which had been created that same year. As his academic and professional lives were influenced by two world wars, he also developed a strong military career and getting to the position of Captain. He was, in fact, known as Capitão (Captain) Queiroz.

His first project was of a rationalist building he created for his father, located at the Rua de Santa Catarina, in Porto. It was there where he established the workshop he always worked from.

His most famed building was unquestionably the Café Majestic, which was initially called Café Elite. When the owners of the café decided to create a window in the back for the sale of newspapers, they resorted to the architect’s services once again. Both the Cine Teatro Olímpia and the Cinema Trindade are likewise his creations; he was also the author of a project for the Coliseu do Porto which ended not being carried out.

Amongst his creations were also private housing and stores. One of the most innovative ones, number 54 at Rua de Santa Catarina, had a circular window display which at the time did not please the most conservative critics. As for housing, number 65 at Rua António Aroso and number 315 at Rua António Patrício are the most conspicuous.

He died at the age of 90, on the 25th February 1982.

 

A day in Porto with: Susana Ribeiro
6 February, 2018 / , ,

The author of the blog Viaje Comigo (www.viajecomigo.com), Susana Ribeiro has spent the last few years traveling around the world. But it’s to Porto, her home, where she always returns to and, as you will see from her suggestions, a city that never ceases to surprise her.  Get to know her suggestions for an unforgettable day in Porto.

Breakfast

Carvalhido gathers some of the best bakeries in the city of Porto. Nova Real is one of them and it’s the perfect place to kick start the day with some breakfast made of fresh bread and baked gods. It is difficult to offer any suggestions, whether savory or sweet, as everything available is delicious – it won’t be an easy choice!

 

Mid-morning coffee

I don’t drink coffee. When I travel, I jokingly get told that I must be the only Portuguese in the world that doesn’t drink coffee. However, for a mid-morning tea, I’d say Tavi, in Foz, with its ocean view. And get something sweet on the side to go with it.

 

 

Shopping

One might just say window shopping and Rua Miguel Bombarda, where you can find the Centro Comercial Miguel Bombarda, has several different stores and dozens of art galleries to visit. Nearby, you will also find Palácio de Cristal, a perfect place for a stroll, weather permitting.

 

Lunch

For lunch… a francesinha! That way, you have all day to burn those extra calories.

Rua Passos Manuel has already been named the Francesinhas Street, considering all of the places that serve them… and the delicacy has already spread to the Praça dos Poveiros. Since everyone has a different opinion as to which one is the best, I will leave it up to you… But, if you ask me, the ones from Lado B are very good.

 

Some shopping

At Rua de Guedes de Azevedo, 123, the Mercado Loft Store is a dream for those who like décor accessories, with some beautiful items and very original gifts.

 

Dinner

After shopping and a stroll along the main avenue in Foz, your appetite will flare up and you will be ready for dinner. But how to choose?

I suggest Wish (at the Largo Igreja da Foz) with traditional food and Sushi or BH Foz (Avenida do Brasil) – which serves a little of everything and with an ocean view.

 

Drinks

These days, the nights in downtown Porto are largely spent on the streets. However, when it’s cold, I go to Gin House bar: a great environment and peaceful during the week.

 

Dancing

Recently I discovered the bar Embaixada Lomográfica do Porto (close to praça Carlos Alberto) e Garden’s (in Travessa de Cedofeita). Both are great for talking and dancing.

 

Galeria da Biodiversidade – Centro Ciência Viva
6 February, 2018 / , , , ,

Entirely dedicated to biodiversity, the Galeria da Biodiversidade – Centro Ciência Viva is so much more than a museum. This modern space, which combines science and art, is made to create unforgettable memories.  It hosts the photographic exhibition Photo Ark up until the end of April

The center integrates the Museu de História Natural e da Ciência da Universidade do Porto (MHNC-UP) (Natural History and Science Museum of the University of Porto), which along with the Jardim Botânico (Botanical Garden) represents one of the hubs connected to the University of Porto.

Located in the legendary Casa Andresen – which inspired the renowned Portuguese poet Sophia de Mello Breyner – the Galeria da Biodiversidade is also surrounded by the Botanical Garden, an equally mandatory stop for science lovers, It is a place where art meets biology and natural history, stimulating interactivity and sensorial experiences. The permanent exhibition integrates 49 very unique narrative modules and installations, organized by 15 main themes that approach several aspects within biological and cultural diversity. From mechanical models to multimedia platforms, there are several ways of bringing together the visitor and the stories told through science, literature and art.

 

 

Photographic Noah’s Ark

Until the 29th April, the Biodiversity Gallery hosts the National Geographic Photo Ark, based on a project from Joel Sartore.  This photographer set a goal 10 years ago: photograph all existing species held in captivity, to create one of the largest archives of biodiversity in the world. This “Photographic Noah’s Ark” is intended to create public awareness towards the conservation of vulnerable animals. The exhibition already pictures over 7000 species and you do not want to miss on seeing its greatest pictures here.

 

Information:

Galeria da Biodiversidade (Gallery of Biodiversity)

Rua do Campo Alegre, n.º 1191, Porto

Schedule: from Tuesday to Sunday, 10am to 6pm

Regular Ticket: 5€

 

 

 

 

Essência do Vinho: a toast to Portuguese wine
6 February, 2018 / ,

From the 22nd to the 25th of February, the Palácio da Bolsa welcomes about 400 Portuguese wine producers that will introduce over 3000 wines from all around the country. The Essência do Vinho, now onto its 15th edition, is an unmissable event for wine lovers.

Portuguese wines are becoming more esteemed and internationally recognized. Many centuries ago the way to fame was paved by Port Wine however, from Minho to the Algarve through the Azores and Madeira, there are countless quality wines that are worth getting to know.

The broadcast of Portuguese wines is the main goal of an event that has already become a mandatory stop for the residents of Porto and all visitors to the city during those days.

The 15th edition of Essência do Vinho presents the “TOP 10 Portuguese Wines”, gathering a selection of the highest scored wines by a specialized magazine. A specialized jury of several nationalities will assess and then select the 10 best wines.

 

The event has 50 simultaneous activities, including gastronomy, with the presence of Michelin starred chefs and tapas harmonization. The last edition of the event welcomed over 20.000 visitors, where 30% were foreign.

 

Information:

Advance ticket sale at www.essenciadovinhoporto.com (daily entrance and a tasting glass: 20€). On the day sales will have a cost of 25€.

22nd February / 3pm – 8pm
23rd February and 24th February / 3pm – 9pm
25th February / 3pm – 8pm

 

The pipe organs that have been operating since 1779
15 January, 2018 / , ,

The Historical Organs of the Clérigos continue to function perfectly, despite being more than 200 years old.

They were made by the Spanish Dom Sebastião de Acunha and, like the building in which they are inserted, are a notable example of the Baroque style that characterized the late eighteenth century. The box of the organ on the side of the epistle is surmounted by a moon; the side of the gospel is characterized by a sun. The unification of these two elements refers to the idea of ​​absolute and totality.

In 2015, these organs were played daily, always at the same time (at noon), often with the two historical organs simultaneously and sometimes with the participation of singers. These free concerts enchant the Porto residents and tourists and are another attraction for an already much sought after destination as well as being appreciated by those who visit the city.

In December 2017 Organ Concert # 1000 was celebrated. It was a special day, where two organists and a soprano were in attendance. But every day one can celebrate the long life of these historical pipe organs and enjoy their music.

The Porto of Catarina Beirão
15 January, 2018 / , ,

She is 17 years old and the beaches of Porto and Matosinhos are almost a second home for this promising Portuguese surfer and female regional champion in the U-18 category. Her passion for surfing surfaced five years ago and has already led to many national and foreign beaches, but it is in Porto that are some of her favorite places.

The athlete of Porto Surf Club does not hide her passion for the sea and the beaches of Porto, and shares with the readers of Hey Porto some of her suggestions for days well spent in the city.

Bar: Bonaparte, Avenida Brasil

I like the environment. I like it because it is a traditional bar in the area where I have always lived, because there are great “pregos” (pork steaks), and because I go there with family and friends.

 

Restaurant- Picaba – Edifício Transparente – Healthy food, in front of the ocean and the beach where I started to surf. The employees know us and make us feel at home. It has a Surf menu and because, no matter how many times I go there, I never get tired of it.

 

Stroll:  seaside walkwayl from the mouth of the Douro River to the Ribeira – walking for me has to be on the shore with the ripples caressing my feet. I am fortunate to live in a unique area of ​​Porto, almost in front of the sea, where I can take this particular stroll very regularly. A walk that is never the same, because the uniqueness of the sea is what makes us always see it differently. There is an unmistakable scent of the sea, and even on foggy and cold days the “whistle” sound (sound coming from the lighthouse to warn the boats on foggy days) makes this tour unique.

 

Ideal place for surfing: Maceda beach (Ovar, Aveiro)

I love the access through the middle of the forest, dunes and cliffs that constitute the beach. Looks like a dream surf spot!

 

A secret of the city: Jardim das Virtudes (Garden of Virtues) – has been less known … but remains a place with some magic. I remember the first time I went there and realized the wonderful view that this garden has. A view to our river Douro and, at the same time in the middle of Baixa, with the court and the garden of Cordoaria at the back. I have no doubt that whenever someone goes there for the first time they will be surprised to have one of the most beautiful views of our city.


Marques da Silva – The architect of Porto
10 January, 2018 / ,

His work definitely stamps the city of Porto. From private homes, schools and even the iconic monument, Marques da Silva has helped build a more modern and more beautiful city.

Born on Costa Cabral Street in Porto, he died in the same city in 1947. José Marques da Silva was born, lived and died in Porto, but Paris and French aesthetics influenced him most. He began studying at the Academia Portuense de Belas Artes, and later studied in École Nationale et Spéciale des Beaux-Arts.

He returned to Portugal in 1896, and almost immediately signed a project of great importance: the São Bento station. In fact, the Gare Central had been his final work in the Architecture course taken in Paris. However, the initial idea had to be reformulated successively, as the station would only be completed in 1916. Despite the fact that a work of such magnitude was handed to him – the city’s first railway station – demonstrates the prestige he already had in the early stages of his career. In 1900 he received a silver medal in the exhibition of Paris, which contributed to increase his national and international prestige.

Throughout his life, Marques da Silva signed several projects that modernized the face of the city. Rarely do you find buildings which fuse aesthetics with functionality and which are sprinkled throughout the city, from Baixa to Serralves.

He was also a professor and director at the Faculty of Fine Arts of Porto and the School of Applied Art Soares Reis. He was also the author of important works in Guimarães and Barcelos.

Some emblematic works in Oporto:

São Bento Station (1896-1916)

Building of the Four Seasons (1905), Rua das Carmelitas

Atelier Marques da Silva (1909), Marquês de Pombal Square

Monument of the Heroes of the Peninsular War (1909), Rotunda da Boavista

São João National Theater (1910-1920), in Praça da Batalha

Building of the Nascimento Department Stores, (1914-1927), corner of Rua de Santa Catarina and Passos Manuel

Lyceum Alexandre Herculano (1914-1931), on Avenida Camilo

Romanesque Church of Cedofeita
10 January, 2018 / , ,

It is the oldest church in Porto, with origins dating back to the sixth century and a king desperate to save a sick son.

Classified as a National Monument and located next to another larger and more modern church, the Church of São Martinho de Cedofeita, commonly known as the Romanesque Church of Cedofeita, stands out for its simplicity and antiquity.

The present church is not, however, the original building, since the temple dates back to the sixth century and the Suebi Dynasty, undergoing several changes over the years. The earliest remains were from the end of the ninth century, therefore predating the very formation of Portugal, which only occurred in the twelfth century. It may have been after 868 (year of the re-conquest of the city from the Moors) that a temple was built, whose capitals still resist. These elements were built in limestone, probably originating from the region of Coimbra, while the remaining building was made in granite. The lower parts of the chancel would have been built later, dating back to about 1087.

Nevertheless, the Romanesque phase of this important work only appeared later, during the period of the reign of D. Afonso Henriques, the first Portuguese king. In addition to its antiquity, this church has unique architectural and decorative features in this region of the country: particularly important is the tympanum in the North Portal, where one can see an Agnus Dei (a mystical lamb symbolizing Christ in the Apocalypse), quite similar to one that exists currently at the Machado de Castro National Museum in Coimbra. The influences of this region can be explained by the fact that Soeiro Anes worked on this project, which was also connected to the Sé Velha of Coimbra.

The legend:

The Suebi king Theodomiro, desperate to save his sick son, made a promise to Saint Martin of Tours, sending to Tours gold and silver in weight equal to that of his son. When returning, a bishop brought a relic of the saint, and when it was shown, the sick son healed. Feeling extremely grateful, the king converted all his people to Catholicism and had a church built in honor of the saint. The church was quickly built, becoming known as Cito Facta, which means Made Early. From this expression the present name of that zone: Cedofeita is derived.

Information:

Largo do Priorado, Porto

Opening Hours: Tuesday through Friday: 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

12 REASONS TO BUY PORTO.CARD
9 January, 2018 / ,

Find out why Porto.CARD may be your best buy for 2018!

 

1 – Attractive price

It is possible to buy the pedestrian Porto.CARD from 6 € and if you opt for the digital version, you only pay 5.70 €. Moreover, is it advantageous to buy a one day card without access to public transport? Here’s an example: on the 1-day cruise ticket on the Douro you get a discount of up to 20%. In fact you save more than € 10.00 on the price of the card.

 

2 – With or without public transport

Porto.CARD exists with the option of having public transportation or not. This pedestrian version is an excellent option for those who already have a car or want to rent a car, motorcycle, bicycle, etc. Everything is available in Porto.CARD. If so, you can get discounts of up to 57% of SABA car parks.

 

3 – Unlimited free access to public transport

If you choose to use public transport, in any of the different choices with transportation from € 13, (1, 2, 3 and 4 days), you have unlimited access to all Metro lines without restriction, as well as on the bus lines of STCP and urban CP Trofa-Valongo-Espinho. What you cannot forget is to validate your Andante Tour ticket whenever you change lines and / or transport.

 

4 – Diversified cultural and tourist attractions

Porto.Card offers you the most current and diversified cultural and tourist attractions: from museums to monuments, tourist circuits (by foot, by car, bicycle, motorcycle, minibus, classic car, boat, sailboat, helicopter, segway, tuk tuk, and rickshaw), there are umpteen ways to get around Porto with generous discounts. Restaurants and shops are among the more than 170 points of interest to discover in Porto.CARD

 

5 -Ease and convenience when shopping

Did you know that you can buy the Porto.CARD in advance at short.visitporto.travel/portocard, at the Official Tourist Offices or at the Nova Câmbios (New Currency Exchange) office at Porto Airport? You can also buy the Porto.CARD digital at buyportocard.visitporto.travel or on the app (Porto Card – Official City Pass) and start using your card as soon as you arrive at your destination. There are several options for your trip: Metro, STCP buses or the reservation of a transfer with discount from Porto.CARD. Just choose the most convenient option!

 

 

5 – Restaurants with a variety of cuisine types

In Porto.CARD you will find restaurants from traditional cuisine to signature cuisine, the latter awarded with a Michelin star. Obviously, the traditional “Francesinha” is present in three specialty restaurants, as well as other types of cuisine. Discounts up to 15%

 

6 – A world of tourist circuits

Did you know that with the Porto.CARD you get discounts on more than 80 tourist circuits, which include trips to Porto, to the Douro River and Minho? Day or Night Tours? Panoramic bus or cable car? From Gastronomy to literature? Contemporary architecture or the Historic Center? What becomes difficult is the choice. Discounts up to 25%

 

7-The most authentic way to learn about Port Wine

With Porto.CARD you have the opportunity to tour the 9 Port Wine Cellars, get to know their history and to taste this internationally acclaimed wine. The card offers you one cellar with free entrance and on the remaining cellars your discount can reach 30%, from November to March.

 

8- Families with children

There are many places to visit with family and to entertain the little ones with discounts of up to 50%. Take the time to relax or have fun with the kids while saving a lot of money.

 

9-For the romantic tourist

If you are looking for romanticism in Oporto this is the city of choice. With Porto.CARD you have the most romantic places to visit, to enjoy good gastronomy and to shop and surprise those who you most love! Discounts up to 20%

 

10 – For the youth

Activities for young people are present in Porto.CARD.  There are many options for the younger travelers who seek challenges! From surf lessons, Jet Boating, Cannoning, Rafting to jeep trails in the Douro and Gerês national Park.

 

11- Modalities adapted to different needs

The Porto.CARD exists in 8 modes: 1, 2, 3 and 4 days, with or without transport, which allows you flexibility in choosing the most convenient card. Being the official card of the city offers you security and confidence.

 

12- Personalized advice at tourist offices

If you choose to buy Porto.CARD at the official tourist offices, you will be personally attended to by attendants who know the city very well and are able to advise the best solutions and options for your enquiry. Be sure to visit us and be pleasantly surprised!