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Vila Nova de Gaia
Located on the south bank of the River Douro on the site of an ancient
fortified village, this suburb is home to more than 50 wine companies
who operate their 'lodges' in the winding narrow streets edged by
red-roofed buildings.
Sandemans, housed in a former 16th century convent, and Taylors
are amongst the best-known lodges, that welcome visitors for tours
and tasting.
In addition, a 16th century monastery having interesting circular
covered passage and a terrace where the Duke of Wellington planned
his attack on the French in 1809 is one of the striking attractions
of the suburb.
Igreja de Sao Francisco
The church of St. Frances, dating back to 1383, stands
on the Oporto waterfront.
Though the exterior of the church is not very imposing, visitors
will be mesmerized to see a lavishly Baroque decorated interior,
a masterwork of the 17th and 18th centuries.
The pillars and columns engraved with gold-gilded cherubs and flower
garlands, wide Gothic arches made of marble, which soar into the
roof, entwined animals, and fruit cornucopia, the spectacular architecture
and the exquisite interior simply marvels everybody.
Museu da Fundação Calouste
Gulbenkian
Opened in 1969, Fundação Calouste Gulbenkian, the
museum houses one of the world's finest private art collections
that covers Egyptian, Greek, and Roman antiquities; a remarkable
assemblage of Islamic art, including ceramics and textiles from
Turkey and Persia; Syrian glass, books, bindings, and miniatures;
and Chinese vases, Japanese prints, and lacquer ware.
The European displays include medieval illuminated manuscripts and
ivories, 15th- to 19th-century paintings and sculpture, Renaissance
tapestries and medals, important collections of 18th-century French
decorative works, French Impressionist paintings, René Lalique
jewelry, and glassware.
The museum simply astonishes visitors with such rare and excellent
collection.
Museu Nacional de Soares dos Reis
Opened in 1840, this extensive art museum is dedicated
to Soares dos Reis, the famous sculptor born and brought up in Porto.
The gallery also exhibits its foreign art collection, which includes
works by the Dutch, Flemish, Italian, and French masters.
In addition, there is a large collection of Portuguese 19th century
works, including those from the Porto school, and exhibits of ceramics,
glassware, gold and silverwork and furniture.
Solar Vinho do Porto
Oporto, famous for port wine; visitors often travel here
for a drink. Solar Vinho do Porto is offers samples of every port
produced in the region. Inside the rose-bedecked villa is a relaxed,
elegant tasting room, staffed by knowledgeable and friendly hosts
who offer glasses or bottles of port, along with some complimentary
snacks and information on the port-making process.
Apart from drinking, visitors can pay a quick visit to the nearby
museum displaying a collection of 18th century furniture and some
paintings.
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