News

Fontainhas – A viewpoint over the river
3 September, 2018 / ,

Highly sought after during the São João celebrations, the area of ​​the Fontainhas has a special charm at any time of the year thanks to its the magnificent landscape view.

This wide alameda, very close to the Ponte do Infante, is a privileged place to see the landscape of the Douro, Vila Nova de Gaia and a part of the city of Porto. From here you can also see four of the six bridges of the city of Porto: Ponte Luís I, Ponte do Infante, Ponte Maria Pia and Ponte de São João.

The trees and stone benches make this the perfect place to enjoy the shade on the hottest days or to watch the sunset.

If you want to venture out, you can go down the steep Rua da Corticeira towards the Douro River. On the way, you will find traces of an old chapel and a ceramic factory. For centuries, women who climbed the slope carrying heavy bales of carqueja (a plant that was later used in the furnaces of the downtown bakeries) walked on this sidewalk.

This is, still today, one of the most distinctive areas of the city and a place where strong bonds of friendship remain.

GPS:  41.14251570487, -8.6002564430237

Pedro Abrunhosa
13 August, 2018 / ,

He is one of the greatest names of Portuguese music. It was with the album “Viagens” in 1994,that he was made known to the general public, having won the success and affection of many who maintained it until today through a total of 7 original works.

That first record featuring Maceo Parker, James Brown’s saxophone player, was followed by “Tempo” (1996), “Silêncio” (1999), “Momento” (2002), “Luz” (2007), “Longe” (2010) and “Contramão” (2013). In the first 5 studio albums, he was accompanied by the band Bandemónio; in the last 2, by the Comité Caviar. All the songs were written and composed by him.

He is Pedro Abrunhosa. He was born in 1960, started in classical music studies, was a teacher (from the age of 16) and bass guitarist of Jazz having founded the Escola de Jazz do Porto (Oporto Jazz School) and his own Orchestra. He is known for always wearing his sunglasses but mainly for many successes in the last 25 years of Portuguese music, such as “Tudo o que eu te dou”, “Momento”, “Se eu fosse um dia o teu olhar” – song composed for the soundtrack of the film “Adam and Eve” by Joaquim Leitão – “Toma conta de mim” or “Fazer o que ainda não foi feito”. His songs are interpreted in Brazil by names like Caetano Veloso (who invited him to present a show together at Expo98), Maria Bethânia, among many others. He also composed for other musicians, like Ana Moura, Carlos do Carmo or Camané. In 2004 he was one of the artists who closed Rock in Rio which was held for the first time in Lisbon. In addition to the 7 studio albums, he released two DVD’s: “Intimidade” in 2005 and “Coliseu” in 2011.

 

In addition to being a songwriter, Pedro Abrunhosa has appeared opposite Chiara Mastroianni in Manoel de Oliveira’s “A Carta”, 1999, and is a regular chronicler in various media outlets. In 2005 he founded the BoomStudios, recording studios for himself and for other national and international music names. He won several awards: 3 Golden Globes, the Bordallo Press Prize, the SPA Prize – Pedro Osório, 4 Blitz Awards, and many others.

In 2016, Pedro Abrunhosa was the author responsible for the song of support for the National Football Team at Euro2016 in France, with an adaptation of the song “Tudo que te dou”.

But Pedro Abrunhosa is also a man of causes. And if today the city vibrates with the cultural programming of the Coliseum, it is surely in the memory of the Porto residents the image of Pedro Abrunhosa handcuffed at the doors symbolizing the opposition of the city to the sale of the space. For this reason and for everything else, Pedro is a man from the city of Porto and Porto is the city of Pedro Abrunhosa.

Manuel de Novaes Cabral
13 August, 2018 / , ,

Born in 1960 in this city, where he carries his professional life, excluding the period in which he was head of the office of Minister Valente de Oliveira, in Lisbon. It is from here that since November 2011, he leads the IVDP, Institute of Douro and Port Wines, which supervises, monitors and certifies the quality and quantity of the and Douro wines as well as promotes them and defend the respective designations of origin. Graduated in Law and postgraduate in European Economics by the Universidade Católica Portuguesa, served as deputy director of the newspaper O Primeiro de Janeiro and was an adviser to the of the Fundação de Serralves.

But before arriving at the IVDP he was the Municipal Director of the Presidency of the Porto City Hall for 8 years and many years in the Coordination Commission of the Northern Region.

Getting back to wine, his connection is deeply familiar and institutional as for 4 years he was also Secretary-General of the Assembly of European Wine Regions, and represented the Porto City Hall at the Great Wine Capitals.  This connection is still made through books, rooted and properly cultivated taste; among others, he published “Aspects de la politique Vitivinicole des Régions d’Europe” (3 vols., 2000 and 2001), “Territories of the Wine” (1st edition, 2009, 2nd edition and Mode de Ler, 2010) and “Other Territories of Wine” (ed. Modo de Ler, 2012) and, of course, his frequent and regular participation in newspapers and magazines.

With wine as the center of attention, but with special focus on what the Douro region provides us.

As he considers wine a cultural element, he does not cease to make this connection constantly: he presented this month in July the book Poems of My Life, the 23rd volume of an annotated collection of poems inserted in a collection begun by Mário Soares, which includes authors such as Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, Vasco Graça Moura or Eduardo Lourenço.

His suggestions are about the city where he lives and knows well. And what good tips he has to give

– Restaurant: I really like going to Ernesto, in Rua da Picaria. It blends really well its old feel with the cosmopolitanism of its clientele. And the walls full of memories, with the cosy good taste of my friend Reinaldo, along with an honest and impeccable kitchen.

 

– Bar: A Capela Incomum, in Carregal. The place, the friends and the very old memory of the visits (without any success) of the old Conservatory.

– Tour: Is Porto not a romantic city by nature? Let’s do the Caminhos do Romântico!

– Ideal place to drink some port wine: Port wine, by itself, at the right temperature and in the glass, transforms any place. I suggest, of course, the atmosphere of the Port Wine Cellars, in Vila Nova de Gaia.

– A secret of the city that you can reveal: The heart of D Pedro, in the Church of Lapa, whose keys are shared by the Ombudsman of the respective Brotherhood and the Mayor of Porto – only accessible to some and in very rare moments.

And if being a bit eerie: Why not circle through the cemeteries of Porto, like the catacombs of S. Francisco, or “hanging out” with Camilo Castelo Branco or Arnaldo Gama in the cemetery of Lapa? And if you go there, ask to see the pistol with which Camilo committed suicide in 1890 in S. Miguel de Seide.

One last tip: Do not forget to visit one of the lesser-known and most notable Houses of Porto, the former Banco Comercial do Porto, currently the Douro and Porto Wine Institute, in Rua Ferreira Borges where you can with a glass of Port in hand.

Procession of the paper costume in Foz do Douro
9 August, 2018 / , , , ,

 

From mid-June to mid-September, the União de Freguesias (Union of Parishes) of Aldoar, Foz do Douro and Nevogilde, host the São Bartolomeu parties – a group of activities that liven up the streets and unite populations and visitors.

The procession of the Paper Costume is admittedly the most awaited moment of the festivities, with a history that has already surpassed 100 years and that in the last decade has gained special notoriety in the city.

 

These are months of work and preparation, with a permanent focus on roots, history and stories of the region. The 2nd French Invasion of 1809 and the Liberation of the City of Porto is the theme for the Paper Costume Contest in 2018, which will take place on August 26. There are meters and meters of paper, surgically worked by dedicated hands that keep this festive moment in the city alive.

This year’s edition has 350 extras, from gatherings and associations of the União de Freguesias, who will join the remaining hundreds who visit Foz do Douro to live this unique experience.

The current format is now 75 years old and integrates a route that seeks to reach the main centers of the history of Foz do Douro. The costumes parade begins at 10:30 am and goes through the Cantareira, rich in its fishing tradition.

After the inevitable passage through the charismatic Jardim do Passeio Alegre, a favourite amongst many intellectuals who fill the culture of Foz do Douro and Oporto, the procession continues to Ourigo Beach where the sea baths take place, one of the most noticeable traditions at the São Bartolomeu parties.

These baths are filled with tradition and folktales. Also known as “holy baths”, these dives in the waters of the Atlantic – seven, as tradition says – are a way of thanking São Bartolomeu’s favors in the last year and for banishing malaria over the next twelve months.

The participants of this year’s edition come from Bloco da União de Freguesias de Aldoar, Foz do Douro e Nevogilde, Associação de Moradores do Bairro Social da Pasteleira – Previdência, Associação de Moradores do Bairro Social de Aldoar and Orfeão da Foz do Douro.

People from all different backgrounds and spaces join in this tradition, showing that the city is made of all and with all even in the most popular of its traditions.

The beaches of Porto
17 May, 2018 / , ,

The sunny days and heat encourage you to go to the beach and in Porto youdo not have to go far to nd a quietplace by the sea to sunbathe, stroll, savour a delicious meal or a cool drink.

Being in a city by the beach is an easy dream to ful-l for those who are in Porto. Visit the nine BlueFlag beaches where you can enjoy the summer without giving up the city life.

PRAIA DO OURIGO

The bathing tradition dates back to the 16th century, when it was said that these waters healed diseases.

PRAIA DO HOMEM DO LEME (HELM MAN BEACH)

It’s ideal for those who have children, since it has two playgrounds. It is a rocky beach, with an area of 374 sq meters. The name comes from the bronze statue, placed on Avenida de Montevideu, which pays homage to theshermen.

PRAIA DO CARNEIRO (RAM BEACH)

It has an extensive beach and has been very popu- lar since the 19th century. Some centuries ago it was a grazing area. A folk tale tells that it was here that one of those sheep strayed from its fold. The image of the sheep was eternalized on top of the Chalé Suíço (a kiosk that still exists today in Rua do Passeio Alegre).

PRAIA DAS PASTORAS (SHEPHERDESS BEACH)

The beach is delimited by two piers, which protects itfrom the wind. It is here that the Douro River ows intothe Atlantic Ocean. It has this name because it was cus- tomary for the shepherdesses to bring their sheep here to graze on the herbs and smell the seaside.

PRAIA DE GONDARÉM

A beach with 115 meters of extension. The name of this beach derives from the Latin and means something like “rest in the battle”. It has a stone wall that is covered because of high tides, making it safer for children.

PRAIA DO MOLHE (QUAY BEACH)

It has an extension of 168 meters and it is named after the coastal structure, similar to a pontoon that advances into the sea and limits the bathing zone. The landscape is embellished by the Pérgola da Foz, a cement balus- trade built in the 1930s that functions as a privileged gazebo over the sea. The staircase and the surrounding area make it one of the most beautiful beaches in Porto.

PRAIA DOS INGLESES (BEACH OF THE ENGLISH)

As the name implies, it was a beach preferred by the British community of Porto. An 86 sq meters sandbank,an area of very smooth slopes and ne sand.

PRAIA DA LUZ

A small beach framed by rocks and a garden area on Avenida do Brasil. When the tide is low you can see two pontoons supporting the baths of the 19th century.

PRAIA CASTELO DO QUEIJO

Located next to Castelo do Queijo. It is a rocky area,much sought after by shermen and people seeking totake advantage of the medicinal properties of rocks.

Photo credits: Marisa Pinheiro

Casino Espinho
18 April, 2018 / ,

Inaugurated in 1974, the casino of Espinho has always been a landmark for entertainment in the north of the country.

Located 15 minutes form the Centre of Porto, and with a privileged location on the coast, it is a reference to gaming and entertainment.

Not only is it for the local community but also for the many foreign tourists that visit us.

Up to date with recent trends and the latest technology, the casino of Espinho offers around 800 slot machines and a great variety of table games, bars, restaurants and on the weekend some of the best shows featuring national and international contemporary artists.

Majestic – From the splendor of Belle Époque to the jewel of the city
29 March, 2018 / , ,

In Rua de Santa Catarina, in the city
centre, Majestic is a must stop for those
who visit Porto. The privileged location,
the facade and the decoration make this a
unique venue in the city.

 

The space was inaugurated on the 17 of December
of 1921, but at that time it was called Elite.
Designed by the architect João Queirós, it functioned
as a kind of private club; with the change of name
to Majestic, it became a meeting point for the high
society, bohemians and intellectuals. Throughout its
history would be place of social gatherings, a point
of passage of artists that visited the city as well as
for statesmen and celebrities.
With the advent of World War II the cafe would enter
a period of decadence, the sale of its very rich estate
going to auction.
During the restoration carried out in the 1990s,
only wall fixtures, mirrors (from Antwerp) and
sofas were kept. Replicas of some pieces which had
disappeared were made so that the original spirit
could be maintained.
Since the mid-90s the Majestic has won a unique
place in the heart of Porto residents and tourists,
and has also won several international awards.

 

The space
The Majestic is a superb example of Art Nouveau,
featuring an imponent marble façade with three
elegant porches facing Rua de Santa Catarina. In the
interior, the great mirrors, the metal candelabras the
sculptures in stucco stand out.
The interior courtyard, built in 1925, was designed
as a winter garden. There was a time when there
was a window facing Rua de Passos Manuel, where
newspapers and tobacco were sold. In this courtyard
there are concerts during the summer, but all year
round the Majestic is also a cultural space, thanks to
the grand piano and the painting exhibitions on the
lower floor, which was once a billiard room.

Curiosities:
J. K. Rowling was a frequent patron of the
Majestic cafe when she lived in Porto and it is
believed that she started working on the book
“Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone”
there.
Former Brazilian President Juscelino Kubitschek
responded as follows when asked what he most
liked about his visit to Portugal: “Well … it was
Majestic … after all I am also a child of God … !!!”

Boavista Football Club – The club of “weird jerseys”
27 March, 2018 / ,

Portuguese champion in 2000/01, Boavista has over 100 years of history.
Established by the British, it stood out in the 90’s. The checkered jerseys led it to become known in Italy as “the club of weird jerseys.”

The British, which due to the business of Port Wine had a large community in the city, introduced football in Porto. The Boavista Footballers was set up in 1903, but few years later, due to a disagreement concerning the days when the matches should be held – the Portuguese preferred to play on Sundays whereas the British wanted to play on Saturdays – resulted in the subjects of His Majesty walking out on the club.

As Boavista Futebol Clube, it had a strong growth over the following decades. The main feature was winning the Portuguese Championship in 2000/01, but participation in European competition had been going on for some years. And it was in 1991/92 during a UEFA Cup qualifying match against Inter Milan, came up the nickname “club of weird jerseys,” an allusion to the black and white checkered jerseys.

The Bessa Stadium, renovated for Euro 2004, has a museum with the history of the club, a walk of fame and two sculptures by José Rodrigues in which the panther, the club symbol , is highlighted.


Alexandre Quintanilha
15 March, 2018 / ,

Alexandre Quintanilha, internationally recognized scientist,  was born in Africa and lived in the United States before moving to Porto, where he directed and taught at the Institute of Molecular and Cellular Biology until his retirement. He is currently a Member of Parliament in the Republic Assembly.

He was born in Mozambique on August 9, 1945, son of an Azorean and a German. His father was a famous biologist but Alexander began by studying physics. He graduated in Theoretical Physics at the University of Johannesburg in South Africa. He later traveled to the United States and studied at the prestigious University of Berkeley, California. It was during this period and whilst living in San Francisco that he met Richard Zimler, then a student. Zimler, who he later married in Portugal, is nowadays a famous writer as well as a university professor.

Between 1983 and 1990 he was assistant director of the Energy and Environment section at the Lawrence National Laboratory. In the 90’s he was challenged to return to Portugal and help found the Institute of Molecular and Cellular Biology, where he eventually became the director. The arrival to Porto happened at the invitation of the neurologist Corino de Andrade, who at the time was already planning to create the Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar. It would be there that Alexandre Quintanilha would teach until he retired. He is the author of publications in the areas of Biology, Environment and Applied Physics. He is the only Portuguese member of the National Geographic Society’s Research and Exploration Council. He has published close to 100 articles in several worldwide scientific journals and was the editor and author of six volumes in areas of Biology and Environment. More than a scientist, Alexandre Quintanilha is a passionate for knowledge. He’s lived in three continents, speaks four languages ​​and likes to question what seems permanent. If at first he felt some difficulties adapting to the city, he quickly became infected by the beauty of Porto and by the friendly way in which he was received.

 

 

Espinho Surf Destination 2018 – Waves & Fun on Espinho beach
9 March, 2018 / ,

On the 10th to the 25th of March, Espinho welcomes the international competitions of the World Surf League, Surf and Longboard. An event with a vast entertainment program for all ages.

International surfing and longboarding competitions are the main focus on these days, but whoever is in Espinho will not just stay on the beach watching the performance of the best surfers. In addition to a surf film show, there will also be photography workshops, exhibitions, surf baptisms, adapted surf classes, fitness classes, workshops related to the manufacture and shape of surfboards, etc. The ESD KIDS Zone is a new area of ​​the event, aimed for the younger crowds.

The competitive component is very intense and occupies almost the entire month: on 10th and 11th March, the North Surf Circuit takes place; from March 16th to 18th the attenton will be on the World Longboard Championship – Longboard World Tour by World Surf League. Between the 21st and 25th March the Pro Junior European – WSL-World Surfing League will be taking place.

The Espinho Surf Destination 2018 is already in its fifth edition but, the big news this year, is the integration of the Longboard World Championship, male and female, which will bring the best athletes in the world to Espinho.

 

Espinho is a beach and surf city which has the best waves in the north and one of the best surf waves of international level. The heart of the city is next to the beach where the event takes place.

 

espinho surf  destination