The Palácio da Bolsa is located in the historic city center in Porto on the Praça do Infante D. Henrique, and is one of the most visited sites in the city. The building was built in 1842 over the ruins of the former St. Francis convent, which was burned in 1833 during the Civil War. The landmark building was used as the Stock Exchange until it was given back to the Porto Commercial Association in 1911.
The predominant style of the the palace is British Neoclassical with Palladian influence that was inspired by other notable buildings in the city. The interior was decorated by several artists and displays a mix of artistic styles and decorative arts.
Visitors can join one of the guided tours to see the glass-domed Pátio das Nações (Hall of Nations) and the magnificently golden Salão Árabe (Arabian Hall, which was designed to copy the grandeur of the Alhambra in Granada, Spain), as well as the numerous portraits that adorn the walls. The Arabian Hall is still used today to receive visiting heads of state and dignitaries.
The Palácio da Bolsa is open from 9:00am to 1:00 pm & 2:00pm to 5:30pm from November to March, and from 9:00am to 6:30pm from April to October. Please note that opening hours may vary throughout the year, as the palace is used to host cultural events. For more information, including an availability calendar, click here.
Book a private tour! You may want to consider booking a private tour with an English-speaking guide. Your personal guide can provide you with information on the city and its historic sites. For more information, click here.
Photo credit: © Christopher Pappas · All rights reserved.
For assistance with your travel plans, including hotel and private tour reservations, click here.