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Ancient history meets new energy in intriguing Porto

By: Neville Dura

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With historic references that date back to the 4th Century, Porto boasts a rich heritage that suffuses its every winding lane, Baroque church and ancient plaza. Famed for its fortified wine production, it is the second biggest city and the country''s namesake. Yet, whilst it may take credit for having put the very ''Porto'' into Portugal, over the last few decades it has been somewhat overshadowed by its perhaps rather more impressive and illustrious big sister of Lisbon.

Nevertheless, thanks to its shared status as European Capital of Culture in 2001 that marked something of a social and cultural renaissance, Porto is on the up. Nowadays, the city boasts and impressive cultural scene of its own and Porto makes a good argument for the nation''s beating heart.

A city of contrasting eras, its fresh energy can be felt in the many art galleries, lively bars and riverfront renewal projects that have burst onto the scene in the last 200 years. This is juxtaposed alongside an enduring legacy of Roman settlements and grand Parisian imitation that saw Porto''s central historic area, the Ribeira, become a UNESCO designated World Heritage Site.

In terms of contemporary architecture, it is undoubtedly the latest striking additions of Ren Koolhass''s Casa de Musica and ?lvaro Siza Vieira''s Museu de Arte Contempor?nea that add a striking note to the city''s skyscape. Commissioned in honour of Porto''s shared status of European Capital of Culture in 2001, Koolhaas''s project in particular draws architecture aficionados from around the world to see this extraordinary concert hall.

Porto is a city built a top of granite slopes, and its weaving hillside roads not only characterise the city, they also afford some marvellous vistas. Head for the imposing Hilltop Cathedral, originally founded in the 12th Century, but later rebuilt in the 18th, or the verdant Jardim do Palacio de Cristal, complete with domed sports pavilion, for wonderful river views.

Of course, Porto is best known for its production of its dessert wine, which is still a thriving industry. You can see the wine making process first-hand with a trip to Barros, some of the oldest surviving cellars, or explore its influence on the city''s history at the Museu do Vinho.

Beyond the city, excursions out to the coast and surrounding ports offer a chance to see attractive working fishing villages that afford picturesque views and excellent seafood. Opt for a Douro river cruise for a glimpse of traditional Portuguese life amidst thriving towns and unspoilt coastline.

Porto''s Mediterranean climate and coastal breeze makes it an ideal place to visit during the spring and summer when the days are dry and temperatures are warm. Whilst development in the last few decades have resulted in several uninspiring hotel developments, the city''s wealth of historical architecture means there are plenty of elegant accommodation options sporting traditional facades to be found at reasonable prices.

Article Source: http://depositarticles.com/

Neville Dura is a freelance travel writer who specialises in providing information on European cities, they also advise that you go to Octopustravel.com where you can find a range of hotels to suit your budget including Porto hotels.

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