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The capital of the north, Porto is the second-largest
city in Portugal and home to some 1 million inhabitants.
Porto is considered the most beautiful part of Portugal,
blessed in natural appeal with its river valleys, lush
countryside and wild coastline. The region is
distinctive with pine forests that converge with
breath-taking sandy beaches between Espinho and the
mouth of the Minho River. Internationally renowned for
its wine and many natural spas, Porto is a UNESCO World
Heritage site and was the European Cultural Capital in
2001.
The old city, situated on the river's bank is vibrant
with colors, bustling markets and cafes, and many locally
owned restaurants. Across the river, you'll find the
cozy old wine lodges in Vila Nova de Gaia and the
colorful old Dom Luis Bridge. As you move outside the
old city, more contemporary life slowly unfolds. Here you'll find a lively and prosperous commercial city.
Ribeira is perhaps the most interesting neighborhoods in
Porto. Steeply set streets with charming balconied
houses, all coalesce with timeless, independent, personal character.
Porto's most famous symbol is Henry the Navigator, proudly diplayed in the square that shares his name. On
the west side of the square is the impressive
glasss-domed former Stock Exchange; take a look
behind it and the most magnificent church in Porto, Sao
Francisco. The church houses a small museum, set deep
underground, and containing an ossario, a collection of
bones dating from before the time of public cemeteries.
The Museu Nacional Soares dos Reis at Rua de Dom Manuel
II, over to the west behind the city hospital, was the
first national museum in Portugal. Its collection
includes glass, ceramics, and late 19th century
sculptures of Soares dos Reis and O Desterro (The Exile)
is probably the best-known work in Portugal.
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