Porto, Part 1

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March 2012

We enjoyed our first half day in Porto by starting with the Clerigos Tower.  It is atop a climbing street, can be seen from everywhere in the old centre, as an orientation of where one is.  The Clerigos Church is built in 18th century (Baroque style) by an Italian architect, Nicholau Nasoni.  The best of visiting the church is to climb the tower to enjoy an awesome panoramic view of the city.  It's best to come in the late afternoon, gentler sunshine shining throughout and best shots allowed.





Browsing around the city, going up and down of the streets in the centre is a pleasure. The different styles of houses, various tile panels, striking colours, contrast of new and decadent buildings, darkened alleys.  All as beauty in the eyes.  A sense of melancholic but happy in the heart.


Strolling towards the river comes the Unesco site Ribeira.  Clusters of building, bars and restaurants dominate the waterfront.  It is the most favourite place for people.  Walking, passing by, drinking, chatting, resting....  You will never miss Porto's landmark here - Ponte de Dom Luis I. It is a double deck metal arch bridge that spans across the Douro River between the cities of Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia.







Walking along the Riberia waterfront or across the Ponte de Dom Luis I, no one will overlook or miss the Mosteiro da Serra do Pilar, the architectual landmark of Gaia.  The terrace is opened to the public to admire the beauty of Porto next to the Douro.  The convent is closed and guarded by military.  Top secret!



The view from Cais de Gaia to Porto is perhaps one's ever-lasting impression of the beautiful city.  It is impossible standing there and not wow about the skyline of Porto.  Strolling a bit longer, particularly beautiful under the evening light.  Boats parking randomly along the shore, vessels moving along the river, decadent buildings, mightly Ponte de Dom Luis I. The pictures ever stay on one's mind.  Those were the days......




Cais de Gaia has its own appeal, home of many Port Wine brands.  Along the shore are the numerous signages of big and small names of Port Wine.  You can pop into any tour to learn about the production and taste the port wine.  Just we did not have the luxury (time) to try one.




Location: Oporto, Portugal

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