Reitoria da Universidade do Porto — Attraction in Porto

The Rectorate of the University of Porto is one of those places that never fails to impress, no matter how many times you visit. Although I was there for work, I couldn’t help but take a moment to appreciate the grandeur of the building, which perfectly balances history and academia. The architecture is stunning, with its neoclassical façade and elegant interiors that reflect the university’s rich heritage. Walking through its halls, you can feel the weight of knowledge and tradition, yet the atmosphere remains welcoming and dynamic.

The grand staircase are particularly striking, making it easy to imagine the countless scholars, students, and researchers who have passed through over the years. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the Rectorate is also a hub of efficiency, with well-organized spaces and staff who are professional and helpful. Whether you’re there for an academic event, a meeting, or just to admire the history, it’s an inspiring place that embodies the prestige and intellectual spirit of the...

The rectory is housed in a Neoclassical building originally designed in 1807 by Carlos Amarante as the Academia Real de Marinha e Comércio (Royal Academy of Navy and Commerce). Due to the French invasions and the Liberal Wars (1828–1834), construction was left unfinished for several years. During the 1832 Siege of Porto, the building was temporarily used as a military hospital. From 1833 onward, architects including Vitória Vila-Nova, Gustavo Gonçalves e Sousa (1862), and António Araújo e Silva (1898) contributed to its transformation into an academic institution. Following the founding of the University of Porto in 1911, the building housed various faculties. Since 2007, it has served as the seat of the university’s rectorate, and is also home to the Natural History and...

Built and remodeled over more than a century, The Royal Academy of Marine and Commerce (1803-1837) and the Porto Polytechnic Academy, which succeeded it (1837-1911), were housed there. The space belonged to the Colégio dos Meninos Orfãos, which remained there until the mid-19th century. The College building was of the convent type, with four wings around a cloister, with the church (of Nossa Senhora da Graça) occupying...