Restaurants, bars and museums in Porto · Page 135

Palácio da Bolsa

Ribeira · Museums

Palácio da Bolsa (former Stock Exchange) is located in Ribeira, Porto, Portugal, next to Igreja de São Francisco. It is included in the World Heritage Site of Porto, as well as listed as a National Monument. It is included here as a museum and attractions. It has been recognised as one of the busier attractions of Porto. Construction began in 1842 and took 30 years to finish. It was designed by Joaquim da Costa Lima. The Palácio was built to house the Porto Commercial Association and served as a Stock Exchange from 1841 to 1911. It can be easily assumed that it was built to serve a different, perhaps a royal, purpose; however, the Palácio has served to house commerce and business, which serves to reflect the overall work ethic of the city. The architecture serves to represent other buildings of Porto and English Palladianism. Tours are the only opportunity to see the palace, and tickets are sold. The first room on the tour is the Patio das Nações. Located here is a room with an iron and glass roof, which is home to the flags of Porto’s international business partners. The Arab Room is considered the Palace’s finest. The palace has magnificent bronzes, staircases and gardens. Along with regular tours, the palace hosts various exhibits and business meetings. One of Porto’s most popular venues, it’s open year round, but hours and schedules change based on the season. From November to March the palace is open from 9 am until 12:30 pm, and from 2 until 5:30 pm. From April to October it is open every day from 9 am until 6:30 pm. The palace is closed on January 1 and December 25.

Venues.