Porto is a hidden gem when it comes to Art Nouveau architecture. Unlike other cities that demolished these beautiful buildings in pursuit of modernity, Portugal couldn’t afford such renovations due to its past economic challenges. This turned out to be a blessing in disguise, preserving these architectural masterpieces. Now that Portugal, and especially Porto, is experiencing economic growth, these buildings are being carefully restored rather than torn down. We’ve mapped out the most stunning Art Nouveau structures in Porto for you to discover. Join us on an Art Nouveau Treasure Hunt!
Art Nouveau is an international style encompassing architecture, interior design, graphic art, textiles, lighting, furniture, and jewelry. Popular between 1890 and 1910, it produced beautiful pieces that continue to grace European cities today. While many cities concentrate their Art Nouveau buildings in specific neighborhoods, Porto’s gems are scattered throughout. Let’s track them down together.
I adore Art Nouveau’s combination of organic and industrial elements, with its mix of wild lines and symmetrical patterns. I don’t think any other art movement has blended such different expressions so beautifully. The symmetrical lines temper the flowing, wild graphics, and the curves of wrought-iron railings soften the strict architectural forms. The craftsmanship involved in making stone, wood, and iron appear light and playful is truly remarkable. This kind of playfulness and experimentation in architecture hasn’t been seen in any other movement since.
In Portugal, this movement, known as Arto Novo, is well represented in both Lisbon and Porto. After spending a delightful month in Porto exploring these often-overlooked treasures, we’ve created this guide for you. Our journey begins near the São Bento Train Station, where Casa Coração de Jesus sells religious items. Next, visit Confeitaria Serrana; despite its plain exterior, the interior is amazing, and you can grab a pastry to fuel your adventure. Walk along the grand Praça da Liberdade and admire the detailed buildings, like Guarany. Don’t miss the Art Deco parking garage Garajem nearby.
Continue up Rua Sá Da Bandeira and stop by Hotel Peninsular before reaching Danceplanet and A Brasileira, which has been beautifully restored recently. Then head back and turn up Rua de 31 de Janeiro, passing the ornate Vicent on your way to the main shopping street. The Vicent house itself might not impress much, but its storefront is worth noting.
Many Art Nouveau buildings today house shops and cafés. On Rua de Santa Catarina, Porto’s main pedestrian shopping street, start with Reis & Filhos, a men’s clothing shop with a wonderful facade and interior. Across the street, the figurehead of LeYa na Latina bookshop stands in contrast to Reis & Filhos. Further up, the newly renovated Hotel Moov retains its Art Nouveau facade.
Moving down Rua de Santa Catarina, you’ll find Marcolino Relojoeiro’s recently refurbished red building with intricate window details. Up the street, the Art Deco Coliseu do Porto is worth a look. Back on the pedestrian street, stop at Majestic Café for an expensive but worthwhile coffee, surrounded by exquisite Art Nouveau details, like a mini museum imported from Paris.
After a caffeine boost, head down the shopping street to Tezenis lingerie store and then down Rua Formosa past A Pérola do Bolhão, where you can buy port wine, sardines, olive oil, and more. If you can’t find it there, try Mercado do Bolhão down the street, surrounded by vintage and renovated Art Nouveau buildings. Walk inside the market and around it to soak up the historic ambiance.
Move towards Praça da Liberdade and into the quarter around Galeria de Paris. This area was once a Carmelite Convent, replaced in the early 20th century by Art Nouveau architecture. Check out Rua de Cândido dos Reis no. 77 and 129, and Rua da Galeria de Paris no. 28. Visit Era uma Vez in Paris at Rua da Galeria de Paris no. 106 for a drink in a Twin Peaks-like setting. Restaurante Bar Galeria De Paris at no. 56 offers a beautiful facade and quirky interior.
Stop by Fernandes, Mattos & Ca to see an industrial take on Art Nouveau. Further up, Livraria Lello & Irmão is a must-see, resembling a Harry Potter bookshop. The €5 entrance fee is deducted from any purchase. Head west to the charming Art Deco Armazens Cunhas building and the Iglesia do Carmo with its stunning blue azulejos.
On Rua de Cedofeita, you’ll find the former BPI bank with white Art Nouveau windows. If you’re up for it, explore further northeast to Maquinas de Outros Tempos for classic and trendy cameras in a modest Art Nouveau setting. Alternatively, turn west on Rua de Miguel Bombarda to admire unrenovated Art Nouveau buildings at no. 131 and 596, imagining your own fixer-upper. Near Jardins do Palácio de Cristal, relax and enjoy the peacocks, and check out the Art Nouveau building opposite Rua de Dom Manuel II.
Walking down Rua Jorge de Viterbo Ferreira, you’ll find a café with stunning views of Porto and the Douro river—perfect for reflecting on your day’s discoveries. On your way back to the city center, notice the yellow Art Deco building at Rua da Restauração no. 362.
Once you start spotting Art Nouveau features, you won’t be able to see anything else! Ready for an Art Nouveau Treasure Hunt? Follow the map and discover all the architectural gems Porto has to offer.
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